The Bugisu cultural institution has announced the passing of Hon. Patrick Wangamati, a veteran Kenyan businessman and former nominated Member of Parliament, who also played a notable role during the early years of the National Resistance Army (NRA) struggle.
According to the spokesperson of the institution, Steven Masiga, the late Wangamati, who passed away at the age of 89, was a long-time collaborator in the liberation struggle and a respected figure in both Uganda–Kenya border communities.
Born in 1937 in Bungoma, Kenya, Hon. Wangamati is also the father of the former Bungoma Governor, and was widely known for his business activities in border areas including Bumbo, Magale, and Lwakaka, where he established strong commercial and social ties.
Family members, including Irene Khainza Manghali, confirmed that preparations for official notifications have already been made, including informing State House of Uganda about his passing.
According to the family, the late Wangamati maintained close historical ties with the NRA movement in the early 1980s, reportedly supporting operations in border areas through his business networks.
It is further reported that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni had previously acknowledged Wangamati’s contribution to the liberation struggle and had intended to host him at State House in Entebbe through arrangements that were being coordinated before his passing.
The Bugisu cultural leadership expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing him as a “regional bridge builder” who strengthened ties between communities in Uganda and Kenya.
The Kenyan government is expected to accord Hon. Wangamati a state burial this weekend in Bungoma.
Bugisu Cultural Institution confirmed that delegations, including cultural leaders and the Umukuka’s representatives, will travel to Bungoma to attend the burial ceremonies and pay their final respects.
Leaders from both sides of the border have described his passing as a loss to the wider Bamasaaba community and the historical liberation narrative shared between Uganda and Kenya.
He is remembered as a businessman, political figure, and a cross-border supporter whose legacy spans decades of regional history and cultural connection.
