The education fraternity and residents of Siaya County are mourning the death of veteran educator Mwalimu Daniel Oluoch Wandayi, the elder brother of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi, who passed away after a short illness.
In a funeral announcement released by the family, Daniel is remembered as a dedicated teacher, mentor and family man whose unwavering commitment to education touched countless lives over a career spanning more than three decades.
“It is with profound sorrow and humble acceptance of God’s will that we announce the untimely demise of our beloved Mwalimu Daniel Oluoch Wandayi after a short illness,” the family said.
Born to Mzee Elly Wandayi and Mama Florence Wandayi, Daniel was the first-born son in the family. Throughout his teaching career, he served in several schools across the Nyanza region, earning admiration for his passion for academic excellence, discipline and mentorship.
He retired from the teaching profession in 2005 after dedicating more than 30 years to shaping the lives of young learners.
Beyond the classroom, Daniel was celebrated as a pillar of his family and community. He was the loving husband of Herine Oluoch and a devoted father to Gilbert Wandayi, Josiah Marakalu, Merab Oluoch, Leovine Oluoch, Hellen Achieng and the late Albania Masawa. He was also a proud grandfather of 11 and a respected elder within the Josiah Marakalu and Wandere Obanda families.
His family described him as a humble and wise man whose influence extended far beyond his profession. As an uncle, cousin and mentor, Daniel offered guidance and support to many people who sought his counsel over the years.
His passing is a significant loss not only to his immediate family but also to the wider community. He is survived by, among others, his younger brother, Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi, and another brother, Michael Wandayi, both of whom have joined relatives and friends in mourning the respected educator.
Family members, friends and well-wishers have been gathering daily from 5:00 p.m. at his home in Yiro-Muhola for prayers and funeral preparations.
According to the funeral programme, the cortege will leave Aga Khan Hospital Funeral Home on Thursday, July 16, and proceed to All Saints Muhola ACK Church for prayers before heading to his home for an overnight vigil.
The funeral service will take place on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Sikalame ACK Church, after which Mwalimu Daniel Oluoch Wandayi will be laid to rest at the family farm in a private interment ceremony.
As tributes continue to pour in, many have described Daniel as an educator whose legacy will endure through the generations of students he taught, mentored and inspired. His life of service, humility and dedication to education leaves behind a lasting imprint on Siaya County and the wider Nyanza region.
