Kenyan political circles are in mourning following the death of Joseph Konzolo Munyao, former Member of Parliament for Mbooni Constituency and Cabinet Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Development.
President William Ruto expressed his condolences on Saturday, November 22, 2025, highlighting Munyao’s long-standing service to his constituents and the wider agricultural community.
Munyao, aged 85, passed away at Nairobi Hospital’s Karen branch, where he had been admitted for complications related to a previous medical procedure, according to his family.
His brother, Jacob Mutua Munyao, confirmed that he was receiving intensive care prior to his death.
A native of Makueni County, Munyao’s political career spanned both single-party and multi-party eras in Kenya.
He represented Mbooni Constituency in multiple parliamentary terms and later held the Livestock and Fisheries portfolio under President Mwai Kibaki from 2003 to 2007.
His leadership coincided with initiatives to support local farmers, particularly in dairy, poultry, and cash crop farming, which remain integral to the county’s economy.
In his statement, President Ruto acknowledged Munyao’s commitment to public service, saying the late leader “worked very closely with farmers to strengthen their livelihoods, which remains a lasting contribution to our country.”
He added that Munyao’s career exemplified dedication and a clear sense of responsibility that positively shaped numerous communities.
Munyao was also a businessman and farmer, running a commercial farm in Kalawa, Makueni, where he cultivated citrus, cotton, and raised livestock.
He played an active role in Kenya’s Democratic Party, being one of its founding members and leading it for several years before stepping down in 2022, according to public records.
Political leaders across party lines have paid tribute to Munyao’s legacy.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka described him as disciplined and community-focused, while National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula noted his rise from a modest background to national leadership. Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior remembered him as humble and committed to public service.
Munyao is survived by four children.