Mohamed Ega Musa Mohamed eulogised as pillar of Eastleigh Somali community

Hundreds of people on Sunday attended the burial of Mohamed Ega Musa Mohamed, a prominent figure in the Eastleigh Somali community, eulogising him as a true friend, a guide for the youth and an inspiration.

The 102-year-old died on Sunday morning after a short illness.

The eulogies given at Mohamed's burial, at the Lang'ata Cemetery in Nairobi, were a testament to the impact he had on the lives of those he encountered.

Mohamed Ega Musa Mohamed’s body is taken to his grave at the Lang’ata Cemetery in Nairobi on January 28, 2024. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Mohamed hailed from one of the pioneering families that established roots in Nairobi at the dawn of the last century, contributing significantly to the development of Eastleigh, now a vibrant Somali business hub.

He was a beloved figure known for his dedication to his community. Notably, he advocated against the use of miraa (khat) and other substances and often offered valuable advice to the youth.

Hassan Ega, brother of the late Mohamed Ega Musa Mohamed, is pictured with friends during the burial at the Lang'ata Cemetery in Nairobi on January 28, 2024. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)

Among the family members at the burial were Mohamed's brother Hassan Ega, nephews Nasser Ega Musa and Mohamed Hassan Ega, cousin Abdi Ali and son-in-law Bile Hirsi Ali.

Bile eulogised Mohamed as a wonderful and supportive person who never quarrelled and consistently gave good advice.

Mohamed Abdullahi, a friend, spoke fondly of Mohamed, saying, "We had been friends for 60 years. A great man has left us." He added that Mohamed was one of the most learned Somalis who shared his wisdom with many.

Ambassador Abdi Ali, who has served in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, said the Somali community has lost a pillar and that Mohamed will be greatly missed.

Eastleigh North MCA Mohamed Kadar and Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan were among the leaders who attended the ceremony. MP Yusuf wrote a condolence message on X:

We deeply mourn the loss of Mzee Mohamed Ega Musa Mohamed, a cherished member of the Eastleigh community, who passed away this morning in Nairobi at the remarkable age of 102 after a brief illness.

He belonged to one of the pioneering families that established roots in Nairobi… pic.twitter.com/IrbhSHZHRN

— Yusuf Hassan (@MPyusufhassan) January 28, 2024

Another condolence message on the social media platform was by Farhiya Abass, Mohamed's niece.

A giant has fallen.

Today, we celebrate the life of a great man, my beloved uncle Mzee Mohamed Egha Musa Mohamed, who gracefully lived 102 years, leaving behind a legacy of history and wisdom. His kindness and love were a beacon in our lives and we will miss him deeply.

As we… pic.twitter.com/n5IQYWkoqE

— Farhiya Abass (@farhiyaabass) January 28, 2024

Mohamed's 102 years of life encompassed a wealth of experiences and knowledge. He leaves an indelible mark on Eastleigh's Somali community and the nations where he worked.

Born on 5th Street in Eastleigh, Mohamed attended Pumwani African School. His journey took him to British Somaliland and former Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, where he gained valuable experiences before returning to Kenya.

Joining Pepsi-Cola in the 1950s, he ascended through the ranks, ultimately becoming the first African to helm the global beverage company's operations in Kenya until his retirement in 1978.

Reflecting on Mohamed's remarkable life, Newton Kanhema, a former journalist and UN official from Zimbabwe, shared, "He told me stories of his adventures in Zimbabwe when he was a young man. He was a modern man who travelled across borders without any hesitation. A very wise man who taught us every time he spoke.”

Mohamed leaves behind a legacy embraced by his four children, numerous grandchildren, and a community forever impacted by his contributions.