In the serene landscapes of Siaya County, the news of the passing on of Professor Bethwel Ogot reverberated like a church bell tolling across the valleys.

Professor Ogot was a distinguished Kenyan historian and scholar, widely regarded for his contributions to the fields of history, African studies, and anthropology.

His daughter-in-law Atieno Madara confirmed that the scholar, aged 95, passed on yesterday morning from Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu.

Madara said the father-in-law had complained of feeling unwell early in the morning, which made them rush him to the hospital. By the time of his demise, he held the title of professor emeritus at Maseno University.

His death was a significant loss to the academic community, both in Kenya and internationally, as he had influenced generations of scholars and students throughout his long career.

Towering figure

A towering figure in the realm of history, Ogot had devoted his life to unearthing and narrating the rich tapestry of Luo’s ancestral history.

His contributions not only shaped academic discourse but also breathed life into the stories of his people, preserving their legacy for generations to come.

Born in the early 1934 village in North Gem Location in Yala in Siaya County,  Ogot went to Ambira secondary school, Maseno School, Makerere University College and the University of St Andrews (UK) before doing postgraduate work at the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London.

His early life was steeped in the stories of warriors, wise elders, and the intricate relationships between his people and their land.

These tales ignited a passion within him that would later define his academic career.

As a young man, he pursued higher education, ultimately earning degrees from prestigious institutions that would later serve as the foundation for his scholarly pursuits.

Throughout his career, Ogot became known for his meticulous research and ability to weave complex narratives that captured the essence of Luo culture.

His seminal work, “History of the Luo People,” became a cornerstone in the field, earning him accolades both locally and internationally.

 His writings were not mere academic exercises; they were passionate pleas for recognition of the Luo’s rich heritage, urging readers to appreciate the depth and diversity of African history.

Broke news

Yesterday, it was Siaya County Governor James Orengo, to first break the news of Prof Ogot’s death.

Orengo a lifetime  admirer of Ogot’s work, described him as “a good historical scholar and a legend of treatises.”

In a heartfelt tribute, Orengo recalled  how Ogot’s scholarship had not only informed the public understanding of Luo history but had also inspired a generation of scholars to delve into the narratives of marginalized communities.

“His pen was a bridge to our past,” Orengo remarked adding that, , “reminding us of our roots and guiding us toward a better understanding of who we are.”

“Ogot’s influence extended beyond academia; he was deeply involved in the community, often engaging with local leaders and youth to promote historical awareness,” he observed.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga described Prof Ogot as a man who was in the category of the “now increasingly rare and outnumbered internationally known, deep independent and professional scholars who treasured academic excellence and value of knowledge to a community and a nation.”

He believed that history was not just a collection of dates and events but a living narrative that shaped identities.

Luo history

He organized workshops and seminars, encouraging dialogue about the place of the  Luos in the broader historical context of Kenya and Africa.

As the sun set on his life, Ogot left behind a legacy rich with scholarly works, including articles, essays, and books that spanned various themes such as culture, migration, and social structure. Each piece reflected his unwavering commitment to truth and the preservation of heritage.

The Siaya community mourned the loss of their esteemed scholar with many calling for the establishment of a mausoleum in his home. Several Nyanza leaders and elders shared stories of Ogot’s contributions, recalling his humility and warmth.

 The Luo Council of Elders led by Vice Chairman James Ayaga recognized him not only as a historian but as a custodian of their collective memory on the Luo culture.

Ayaga said his legacy would continue to inspire future scholars and serve as a beacon for those committed to exploring and celebrating the histories of their own communities.

In the hearts and minds of many, Ogot would forever remain a guiding light, illuminating the path of understanding and respect for their rich ancestral heritage.

Kisumu County Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o also paid tribute to the fallen scholar.

The leaders prayed that his soul rest in eternal peace and also prayed to friends, relatives and friends strength to overcome the loss.

He also served as the Dean, of the School of Arts and Social Sciences and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academics therein.

He was the President of the International Scientific Committee for the preparation of UNESCO’s General History of Africa.

He edited Volume V of UNESCO’s History of Africa and presided over the committee that oversaw the production of the entire History. He was a member of the International Commission for UNESCO’s History of Humanity.

From the University of Nairobi, Ogot was appointed by President Jomo Kenyatta to serve as a member of the East African Community (EAC) Legislative Assembly, between 1975 and 1977.

He was President of the Pan African from 1977 to 1983. Between 1978 and 1980 Ogot served at the International Louis Leakey Memorial Institute for African Pre-History (TILLMIAP), which was an integral part of the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), as its first director.

He served Kenyatta University as a Professor, and the Kenya Post and Telecommunications as chairman.