Daniel Ole Sambu, deputy secretary general of Kenya’s ruling United Democratic Alliance, died Thursday. He collapsed in Nairobi, and the cause of death remains under investigation.
President William Ruto announced Sambu’s death in a social media post, calling him a devoted patriot and effective grassroots organizer.
Ruto praises ‘gentleman’ and mobilizer
“Daniel Ole Sambu, the UDA Deputy Secretary-General, was a gentleman and a solid grassroots mobiliser,” Ruto wrote. “He was a steadfast UDA leader who subscribed to mature and progressive politics.”
The president extended condolences to Sambu’s family and party members, saying, “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and the UDA fraternity. Rest in peace, Ole Sambu.”
Sambu, a Maasai from Kajiado County, was appointed to his post during a party restructuring before the 2022 elections. He played a key role in strengthening UDA’s grassroots networks, helping the party secure a parliamentary majority.
Party calls Sambu a ‘strong pillar’
In a separate statement, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar described Sambu as “not just a colleague in leadership but a strong pillar of our party — a dedicated democrat who stood firmly with its ideals.”
Omar highlighted Sambu’s “strategic insight, unwavering commitment to the party’s growth and relentless work in building our structures from the grassroots.”
The party offered support to the family: “We pray that God grants the family strength and fortitude to bear the loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Conservation work remembered
Sambu was also a prominent conservationist, serving as coordinator of the Predator Compensation Fund at Big Life Foundation. The program compensates Maasai communities for livestock lost to predators, helping reduce human-wildlife conflict.
The foundation mourned him as a “beloved colleague, brother, father and community leader,” saying his compassion and commitment created “a void that words cannot fill.”
It urged celebration of his legacy of service and love for people and nature, adding that “his spirit will continue to guide us.”
Just weeks earlier, Sambu hosted Ruto at the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival in Amboseli, highlighting the foundation’s efforts.
Sambu’s death comes as UDA prepares for internal grassroots elections.
