"Safiri salama": Khalwale's son speaks on relationship with stepmother Gloria
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, the third wife of Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, died on August 15, 2026, aged 45
- She was the mother of eight of Khalwale's 17 children and was widely remembered as kind and hospitable by those close to the family
- Her burial service drew family and political associates to Malinya Stadium before she was laid to rest at the family home in Ikolomani
The funeral of Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale, the third wife of Kakamega Senator Dr Boni Khalwale, took place on August 21, 2026, at Malinya Stadium before her remains were laid to rest at the family's home in Ikolomani, Kakamega County.
Gloria passed away on August 15, 2026, at the age of 45 after suddenly collapsing from a heart attack.
Her death sent shockwaves through the family and the broader political circles her husband moves in.
How did Gloria's stepson mourn her?
One of the most moving moments during the service came when one of Gloria's stepchildren delivered a eulogy that left many in attendance visibly emotional.
The tribute drew a direct connection between Gloria's role in the family and a loss they had faced years earlier.
"Losing a parent is the most painful experience. Seven years ago, we lost our mother, Adelaide Shikanga. But Mum Gloria was there for us and made the grieving process a little bit lighter. We are heartbroken to lose her, but it will be well. Go well. You were so kind-hearted with a beautiful soul...go to heaven with that heart..." the son said.
The words painted a picture of a woman who had stepped into a difficult role within a blended family and carried it with grace, offering comfort to children who were not biologically hers at one of the hardest moments of their lives.
Who was Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale?
Gloria was the mother of eight of Khalwale's 17 children. Her children, Engine Kukaste, Olivia Sabayi, Flavia Shimuli, Gift Atubukha, Meliza Khamwenyi, Velma Nasiebanda, Sonia Inuni, and Maura Makatse, were among those who gathered to bid her farewell.
Despite being married to one of Kenya's most prominent politicians, Gloria largely stayed out of the public eye.
Those who knew her personally, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and other family friends, described her as warm and hospitable.
She shared a family compound in Kakamega with Khalwale's other wives: Adelaide, the first wife; Josephine, the second; and Diana, the fourth.
President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto also extended their condolences to the Khalwale family following Gloria's death, a gesture that underscored the senator's standing in Kenyan politics.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.