Mama Sarah Obama dies aged 99

Former US President Barack Obama's grandmother Mama Sarah Obama (pictured) has died.

Mama Sarah, who has been sick for some time, died while undergoing treatment at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital.

Masat Obama, the eldest daughter to the late has confirmed the demise of the philanthropist.

Sarah was the third wife of Hussein Obama. She died at the age of 99. She is reported to have fallen sick in 2019.

She had expressed concerns that her sickly condition would affect the normal operations of her Foundation which sponsors orphans and vulnerable children in Kogelo.

However, Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga, had assured her of his support towards the foundation including donating foodstuff among other necessities once she was discharged from the hospital.

She had hosted former US President Barack Obama at her Kogelo village home when he visited and opened a youth centre.

She was arguably the oldest living matriarch of the Obama lineage.

In his message of condolence, Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o said Kenyans will miss her dearly.

“She was always charming and warm to those who visited her home. She was my late mother’s friend and a dear grandmother to all of us. May the Lord rest her soul in eternal peace.”

He added: “Mama Sarah was not only a matriarch of the larger Obama family but a motherly figure to many. She was a philanthropist who helped to mobilize funds to pay school fees for many and vulnerable children. She also supported many widows.”