Kenya’s youngest varsity boss thrown into mourning days after colourful installation
The newly installed youngest Chancellor of Cooperative University of Kenya Dr.Bernard Chitunga, has been thrown in mourning following the death of his father, a retired education officer Mr William Lumati of Chegulo Village in Malava constituency, Kakamega county.
Lumati, who has been battling parkinson disease for the last five years as revealed by the 36-year-old University Chancellor, collapsed in his home at around 11pm on May 8 ,2025 and was pronounced dead at a Webuye hospital.
“Our Father, my dad- Mr. William Lumati has rested this night (8th May,2025). Dad collapsed around 11 pm at home in Malava-Chegulo, he was pronounced dead at a hospital in Webuye. He had battled Parkinson’s disease for the last 5 years. We thank God for His life of service as an educationist( Retired Education Officer) and through his Seventh Day Adventist Faith ministering to the less privileged in the society. Keep us in your prayers,” he said in a post on his official social media page.
Lumati also served as the ward manager of the Butali/Chegulo ward under Wycliffe Gimoi between 2013 and 2017 and will be remembered for spearheading development programs for the society.
Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera has mourned the late as a person who contributed to the growth of education standards in society.
“On behalf of Western Parliamentary Caucus, Lugari people, my family, and myself, I send my heartfelt condolences to the family of Mzee Lumati led by the Chancellor of Cooperative University Dr. Benard William Chitunga following his demise.
We celebrate the life of Mzee and clearly note his contribution to education and growth of SDA faith.
At this trying moment, we pray to our heavenly God to protect the family and afford them distinctive strength to withstand the loss. Rest in peace, khocha,” He wrote.
