The academic community came together to bid farewell to University of Eldoret Associate Professor Violet Kadenyeka Mugalavai, who was laid to rest on Saturday, September 27, 2026. Colleagues gathered in graduation regalia to pay their respects to Prof Mugalavai, a renowned expert in food security, nutrition, and food processing. Her passing drew an outpouring of grief from academics who knew her personally and professionally.
Prof Grace Cheserek, a close friend and colleague, remembered Mugalavai as her best friend of 23 years, since they met in 2003 while pursuing their PhDs. Prof Cheserek described Mugalavai as not only a great friend and advisor but also a mentor to her children. She noted that Mugalavai's love for singing and cooking defined much of who she was. Prof Cheserek announced the burial on Facebook on Monday, September 28.
Mugalavai was a serious academic whose research shaped her field, particularly in innovations linked to instant ugali and uji. Her work earned her recognition at the University of Eldoret and beyond. Dr Wambui Nganga, who had known Mugalavai for more than three decades, paid her own tribute to the late professor, fondly calling her "Prof Kade." Dr Nganga recalled Mugalavai's mentorship and genuine interest in her family life.
Dr Nganga shared a memorable experience with Mugalavai, recalling a field trip to Nairobi during which Prof Kade woke early and washed dishes at her sister's home. This gesture spoke volumes about her character despite her academic standing. Their shared interests in cooking, apparel, and crafts gave their friendship a texture that outlasted any single institution or project.
One of Dr Nganga's final memories of Mugalavai was a lighthearted moment at a birthday celebration for Dr Rachel Karei, where the two laughed together without any sense of what was to come. Prof Mugalavai's daughter shared her own account of her final moments with her mother, adding a deeply personal dimension to the wave of public tributes from colleagues.
The tributes to Prof Mugalavai highlighted her warmth, humility, and decades of mentorship. Colleagues and academics celebrated her legacy, acknowledging the impact she had on their lives and careers. Dr Nganga concluded her tribute by saying, "Fare thee well, Prof. Kade. Rest peacefully, dear friend. She will be deeply missed, but she will never be forgotten."
The ceremony was a testament to the respect and admiration Prof Mugalavai had earned throughout her career. Her contributions to food security, nutrition, and food processing will be remembered for years to come. The University of Eldoret and the academic community at large will miss her expertise and warmth.
Key points
- University of Eldoret Associate Professor Violet Kadenyeka Mugalavai was buried on September 27, 2026, with colleagues paying emotional tributes to her.
- Prof Mugalavai was a renowned expert in food security, nutrition, and food processing, known for innovations linked to instant ugali and uji.
- Colleagues gathered in graduation regalia to bid farewell to Prof Mugalavai, highlighting her warmth, humility, and decades of mentorship.
