The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has led tributes following the passing of former nominated MP Catherine Nyamato, remembering her as a fearless advocate for gender equality and a pioneer in the fight for women's rights in Kenya.

In a statement issued on Thursday, July 17, 2025, KEWOPA honored Nyamato for her bold stand against harmful practices like FGM, her tireless advocacy for inclusive leadership, and her mentorship of countless women leaders.

“Her legacy will live on in the continued struggle for inclusive leadership and justice for all,” the statement read.

The outpouring of condolences follows an earlier tribute by Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, who hailed Nyamato as a polished and pragmatic politician whose leadership left a lasting imprint both at the county and national level.

He described her as a pioneer who empowered women through bold activism and advocacy, noting that her influence shaped the leadership landscape in the greater Gusii region.

“Indeed, Catherine did not wait for change to happen; she was the change herself,” Nyaribo stated, calling her one of the most consequential women leaders from the region.

Nominated Senator Esther Okenyuri also paid tribute, recalling Nyamato’s unyielding commitment to women’s empowerment in a male-dominated political era

“She never hesitated to speak out for civil education, women’s participation in leadership, and social equity,” said Okenyuri, describing her as a fearless leader who broke barriers in the face of entrenched patriarchy.

Nyamato made history as the first woman from the greater Gusii region to be nominated to Parliament by the late President Daniel Arap Moi, setting the stage for a new generation of women leaders in Kenya.