Prof. Phillip Okoth Raburu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor-In-Charge of Planning, Research, and Extension at the University of Eldoret, has died.
According to family members, Raburu passed away at 4.30 a.m. on Monday at Eldoret Hospital after a period of illness.
He was an Associate Professor of Aquatic Resources and Environmental Management.
Willis Owino-Ong’or, who identified himself as Raburu’s first cousin, confirmed the death in a statement on Monday.
“It’s a sad morning for me. I have lost my first cousin, son of my aunt, my brother in Christ and friend, Prof. Philip Raburu, this morning at 4.30 am in Eldoret Hospital. He fought gallantly, but God saw it fit to take him,” he said.
Owino-Ong’or added that Raburu had spoken the previous day of wanting to “go home,” words the family later understood in a different light.
He extended condolences to the late Professor’s wife, Elizabeth, and children Jessie, Eugene, Steve, and Joy, as well as the wider family.
University of Eldoret student leaders also paid tribute. Student President, Collins Kimutai, described Raburu as more than an Administrator.
“Prof. Raburu was not just a leader in our University — he was a mentor, a father figure, and a true servant of knowledge,” Kimutai said.
His dedication to research, innovation, and student growth will never be forgotten,” he said.
“On behalf of the entire UoE student fraternity, I send my deepest condolences to his family, the University management, staff, and all comrades,” Kimutai said, adding, “You left a legacy. You fought a good fight and your legacy will live on.”
Raburu, who hailed from Migingo Village in Kisumu County, held a PhD in Environmental Studies from Moi University, an MSc in Hydrobiology from the University of Nairobi, and a BSc from the same institution.
He had previously lectured at several teacher training colleges before joining Moi University and later rising through the ranks at the University of Eldoret.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course. The University of Eldoret community is mourning the loss of one of its senior leaders.
By Maurice Aluda
