Professor Abel Gitau Mugenda, husband of former Kenyatta University Vice-Chancellor died on Saturday after a short illness, according to a statement released on Sunday afternoon by the Presidential Strategic Communication Unit (PSCU).
The president cited one of Prof Mugenda’s books titled Social Science Research: Theory and Principles, which he described as a valuable guide to research in Africa and the developing world.
Mr Kenyatta also described Prof Mugenda as a true patriot who committed himself to serving the country through his skills, knowledge and talent, despite his great achievements and exposure to opportunities outside Kenya.
“Prof Mugenda imparted great knowledge on research methods to our young people, not only through teaching, but also through his published works. We will forever be indebted to this great scholar,” he said.,
Prof Mugenda worked with the United Nations and several International non-governmental organisations as a researcher and a monitoring and evaluation specialist.
He also lectured in the areas of research methods, monitoring and evaluation and statistics at the University of Nairobi, Iowa State University, Kenya Methodist University and United States International University-Africa.
Mr Mugenda authored several books in research methods, including Qualitative Research Methods and Social Science Research: Theory and Principles.
His widow is a currently a member of the Judicial Service Commission.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence and encouragement to the family, relatives and friends of Professor Abel Gitau Mugenda.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Prof. Olive Mugenda, following the death of her husband Prof. Abel Gitau Mugenda. Prof. Gitau was a great scholar who imparted our young people with great knowledge on research methods through his teachings and published works.
— Uhuru Kenyatta (@UKenyatta) January 6, 2019