Harriet Scott, daughter of University of Eldoret academic Professor Violet Kadenyeka Mugalavai, has shared a deeply moving tribute on Facebook after her mother passed away on September 17, 2026. In her post, Harriet described the loss as "tragic and unfathomable." Professor Mugalavai had been battling an illness for several years, showing remarkable courage throughout. Harriet's tribute provided a glimpse into the close relationship she shared with her mother, portraying Professor Mugalavai not only as a parent but also as a teacher, mentor, confidant, protector, and friend.
Professor Mugalavai was admitted to St Luke's Hospital on September 9, 2026, after experiencing difficulty in breathing. She was initially placed in the High Dependency Unit (HDU) before her condition appeared to stabilize. By Sunday, September 14, she had been moved to a private room, where she ate chicken stew and rice, lifting her family's spirits considerably. Harriet recalled that her mother seemed to be turning a corner, with her skin glowing, conversing normally, and issuing her characteristic instructions.
On the evening of September 14, Harriet brushed her mother's hair, applied lip gloss on her lips, and said goodnight, expecting a discharge within days. However, by the following morning, Professor Mugalavai's condition suddenly deteriorated. She was moved back to the HDU and then into intensive care, where her organs began shutting down. Despite a large team of doctors and what Harriet described as "prayer warriors" working through the crisis, Professor Mugalavai could not be saved.
Professor Mugalavai died at 1:26 am on September 17, 2026, following a cardiac arrest while on life support. Harriet's Facebook post described the relationship she shared with her mother in terms that went far beyond the ordinary. She noted that she could see her mother's reflection in herself, describing it as a permanent imprint left behind.
In her tribute, Harriet expressed hope that her mother's passing brought her full circle, and that Professor Mugalavai would be reunited in spirit with her late father, whom she referred to as the professor's "first love." Harriet also signed off with a promise to reunite with her mother in spirit. Professor Violet Kadenyeka Mugalavai is remembered by her family as a woman of grace, intellect, and boundless love.
The University of Eldoret community and beyond have been left to mourn the loss of Professor Mugalavai, an academic and mother who had a profound impact on those around her. Her legacy lives on through her daughter Harriet, who has vowed to carry on her mother's memory.
As the family continues to grieve, they take comfort in the memories they shared with Professor Mugalavai. Her daughter's heartfelt tribute has resonated with many, highlighting the deep bond they shared and the remarkable person Professor Mugalavai was.
Key points
- Professor Violet Kadenyeka Mugalavai died on September 17, 2026, after a battle with illness.
- Harriet Scott shared an emotional tribute to her mother on Facebook.
- Professor Mugalavai was admitted to St Luke's Hospital on September 9, 2026, after experiencing difficulty in breathing.
