Veteran educator mwalimu Daniel Wandayi /HANDOUT
The education fraternity and residents of Siaya county are mourning the death of veteran educator Mwalimu Daniel Oluoch Wandayi, the elder brother of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi, who passed away after a short illness.
In a funeral announcement released by the family, Daniel is remembered as a devoted teacher, family man and mentor whose contribution to education spanned more than three decades.
"It is with profound sorrow and humble acceptance of God's will that we announce the untimely demise of our beloved Mwalimu Daniel Oluoch Wandayi after a short illness," the family said.
Born to mzee Elly Wandayi and mama Florence Wandayi, Daniel was the first-born son in the family.
He dedicated more than 30 years of his life to teaching in several schools in Nyanza, earning admiration for his commitment to academic excellence and the mentorship of generations of learners before retiring in 2005.
The family described him as a loving husband to Herine Oluoch and a devoted father to Gilbert Wandayi, the Josiah Marakalu, Merab Oluoch, Leovine Oluoch, Hellen Achieng and the late Albania Masawa.
He was also the grandfather of 11 and a respected elder within the wider Josiah Marakalu and Wandere Obanda families.
Daniel was the elder brother of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi and Prof Michael Wandayi of the University of Nairobi. His death has left a significant void within both his family and the wider community, where he was widely respected for his humility, wisdom and commitment to service.
The family said Daniel's influence extended far beyond the classroom, describing him as an uncle, cousin and mentor to many who sought his guidance over the years.
"He devoted over three decades to shaping young minds, serving in several schools across Nyanza before retiring in 2005," the announcement states.
Family members, friends and well-wishers have been gathering daily from 5:00 pm at his home in Yiro-Muhola, Ugunja, Siaya county, for prayers and funeral preparations.
According to the funeral programme, the cortege will leave Aga Khan Hospital Funeral Home in Kisumu on Thursday, July 16, for prayers at All Saints Muhola ACK Church before proceeding to his home for an overnight vigil.
The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Sikalame ACK Church, after which he will be laid to rest at the family farm in a private interment ceremony.
