Leaders across the country on Tuesday joined Kenyans in mourning former Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha, following the announcement of his death.

In a statement, Nairobi Hospital CEO James Nyamongo announced Magoha’s untimely death at their facility.

“Prof. Magoha collapsed at home and was rushed to Nairobi Hospital’s Accident and Emergency. Efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful,” said Nyamongo.

Magoha died at the age of 71.

Condolence messages poured in from leaders in Kenya and beyond, with most of them praising the late Cabinet Secretary for his leadership in the education sector.

President William Ruto eulogized Magoha as a towering giant of our time, a great man who stood tall in the academy, where he excelled in learning, teaching and research, as well as in administration, where he led robust turnaround interventions at the University of Nairobi and the Kenya National Examinations Council.

“Prof. Magoha also famously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Education. Throughout his tenure, he evinced a commitment to high standards in the public service and an uncompromising integrity,” said the President.

He added, “I have been privileged to know and work with the late Professor in many capacities, from the university where I completed my post-graduate studies, to government, where he served with distinction as the chair of KNEC and later as my colleague in Cabinet. We have lost a gifted, unique, distinguished and great servant of Kenya.”

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said Magoha will be remembered for his independence of mind and fearlessness.

“Prof. Magoha was an accomplished professional who served Kenya with zeal as witnessed when he served as the CS for Education and other posts held earlier,” said DP Gachagua.

He further said Magoha left an indelible mark at the University of Nairobi rising through the ranks to become VC, at the Exams Council as Chairperson, and as CS for Education.

“I will miss Prof Magoha, a man I personally admired for his forthrightness and ethics. My thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Prof Magoha,” he said.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned the late CS who served in his administration as a celebrated academic who leaves behind a strong legacy of public service.

"It is unfortunate and painful that we've lost my friend Prof George Magoha at a time when his family is mourning his brother," the former President said as he wished the Magoha family God's comfort during this difficult period of immense grief,” said Uhuru.

Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader described him as a transformational leader, illustrious scholar, dedicated public servant, and distinguished medical doctor who left an indelible mark on our country's education system.