Who Is Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o was born on January 5, 1938, which makes him 87 years old in 2025. He is a prominent Kenyan writer, academic, and social activist, celebrated for his contributions to literature and his advocacy for cultural identity and social justice. Throughout his career, Ngũgĩ has been a powerful voice for the marginalized, often focusing on issues of colonialism, identity, and the struggles faced by various communities.
| Occupation | Philosophers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1938 |
| Age | 87 Years |
| Birth Place | Kamiriithu, Colony and Protectorate of Kenya |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | Georgia |
| Date of death | 28 May, 2025 |
| Died Place | Buford, Georgia, U.S. |
Popularity
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although specific details about his height and weight are not widely reported, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o is often described as being of average build for his generation. His presence, coupled with his eloquent speech, has made him an influential figure in both literary and academic spheres.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o has been married multiple times and has several children. As of 2025, he is not publicly known to have a girlfriend or partner, focusing instead on his work and literary contributions. His family remains essential to him, with his children often acknowledging his impact on their lives and the importance of cultural heritage.
His family was caught up in the Mau Mau Uprising; his half-brother Mwangi was actively involved in the Kenya Land and Freedom Army (in which he was killed), another brother was shot during the State of Emergency, and his mother was tortured at Kamiriithu home guard post.
Net Worth and Salary
As one of the most respected literary figures in Africa and beyond, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o has accumulated substantial wealth through book sales, academic positions, and speaking engagements. In 2025, his estimated net worth is reported to be around $3 million, reflecting his successful career and enduring influence. Salary specifics vary depending on his teaching and writing engagements but typically align with those of other influential academics and writers.
Career, Business and Investments
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o's career spans multiple decades, with his literary works translated into numerous languages. He is best known for novels such as Weep Not, Child, The River Between, and Petals of Blood. In addition to his fiction, he has also penned critical essays and plays that explore complex themes surrounding postcolonial identity, language, and freedom.
Ngũgĩ's commitment to education and cultural preservation extends beyond publications; he has served in various teaching roles at prestigious institutions. In terms of business and investments, he is known for his writing, but specific details about his venture into other industries are limited. His royalties from books and speaking engagements remain significant sources of income.
After Ngũgĩ's release in December 1978, he was not reinstated to his job as professor at Nairobi University, and his family was harassed. Because he wrote about the injustices of the dictatorial government at the time, Ngũgĩ and his family were forced to live in exile. Only after Arap Moi, the longest-serving Kenyan president, retired in 2002, was it safe for them to return.
Social Network
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o is active on several social media platforms, primarily Twitter and Facebook, where he engages with fans and followers on literary topics and social issues. He often shares insights into his writing process, thoughts on current events, and reflections on his own life and culture. His active presence contributes to a robust community of readers and admirers who continue to advocate for his works.
Ngũgĩ began writing in English before later switching to write primarily in Gikuyu, becoming a strong advocate for literature written in native African languages. His works include the celebrated novel The River Between, plays, short stories, and essays, ranging from literary and social criticism to children's literature.
He was the founder and editor of the Gikuyu-language journal Mũtĩiri. His short story The Upright Revolution: Or Why Humans Walk Upright was translated into more than 100 languages.
Education
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o received his early education in Kenya and later moved to the United States, where he studied at the University of California, Irvine. He holds multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in English and Literature. His educational background has significantly influenced his writing style and thematic focus, blending African oral traditions with Western literary forms.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o (born James Ngugi; 5January 1938 – 28May 2025) was a Kenyan author and academic, who has been described as East Africa's leading novelist and an important figure in modern African literature.
