Prof John Samuel Mbiti is dead.
The Kenyan-born Christian religious philosopher and writer died on Sunday in Switzerland.
Prof Makau Mutua confirmed the death through his Twitter account. He said that the death of the scholar is a big blow to the nation.
Mutua who is also a scholar noted that the deceased will be remembered because of his immense contribution towards the education sector.
Prof Mbithi once taught at Makerere University before he left. He was the first African to translate the Bible into Kikamba.
“Prof John Mbiti, Kenya’s — one of the world’s most iconic philosophy and religion scholars — passed away today in Switzerland. Ironically, I wrote about him in my Sunday Nation column today before he passed. May his family and friends know peace @WMutunga @ncckkenya @RailaOdinga,” Prof Mutua tweeted.
Mbiti was an ordained Anglican priest.
He undertook his studies in the United States of America and Uganda. He took his doctorate at the University of Cambridge in 1963.
While at Makerere University, he taught religion and theology.
He is remembered for his immense role in the education sector. He has authored several books including African Religions and Philosophy (1969).
The late professor kept on expressing interest in theology across Asia and Africa among other continents during his active days in the education field
He has been very vocal on matters of education since he entered the sector.