President Uhuru Kenyatta has eulogised Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria Dr Wilfred Machage, 65, as a seasoned politician, consummate diplomat and committed public servant who served the country with distinction and utmost dedication.
In his condolence message, President Kenyatta said Ambassador Machage was a selfless person, and will be remembered for his many years of public service as a medical doctor, politician, Cabinet minister and diplomat who worked tirelessly for the wellbeing of Kenyans.
“I received the shocking news of the sudden death of my friend and our country’s Ambassador to Nigeria Dr Wilfred Machage last evening with disbelief,” Uhuru said.
Ambassador Machage collapsed and died on Saturday afternoon at his residence in Abuja, Nigeria.
He was a two-term Kuria East MP, the first Migori Senator and former Cabinet minister.
“As a politician, Dr Machage was a relentless advocate of the interests of wananchi especially Kuria and Migori residents that he represented in the National Assembly and Senate respectively,” the President said in a statement.
He added that Dr Machage’s loyalty, professionalism and firmness saw him appointed to various senior government positions including that of a cabinet minister for the East African Community docket.
“Dr Machage was a charismatic, determined and forthright leader whose friendly disposition and wit earned him many friends.
“A gifted orator, Dr Machage will be remembered by many for his flawlessly and humorous parliamentary debates in English and Swahili languages,” the President said.
Deputy President William Ruto said Dr Machage was a distinguished public servant who served the people of Kuria, Migori county and Kenya with dedication.
“He was wise, progressive and full of fresh thoughts. He played his part in developing our country. May God grant strength and comfort to the family and their loved ones during this time of grief. Rest In Peace,” DP Ruto said in his condolence message.
Dr Machage was appointed Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria by President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018 from where he was accredited to 12 other countries in Central and West Africa.
