CHURCH FUNERAL SERVICE PROGRAM A.I.C. MILIMANI, TUESDAY JULY 18TH, 2017 AT 10AM PRESIDING MINISTER REV DR. MATTHEWS MWALWA

Processional Hymn Opening Prayer

Remarks by Dr. Chris K Kiptoo, Principal Secretary, State Department for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Hymn Readings 2 Corinthians 4: 16-18 2 Timothy 4:6-7 Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 Eulogy Esther Koimett Hymn Word of Encouragement Hymn Tributes Mrs Hannie Biwott Children Grandchildren Friends and colleagues Government Political Leaders Prayer for the Family Vote of Thanks Titus Biwott Announcements Mark Chirchir Closing Prayer Benediction FUNERAL SERVICE PROGRAM MARIA SOTI GIRLS' CENTRE, KAPTARAKWA THURSDAY JULY 20™ 2017 FROM 10AM PRESIDING MINISTER BISHOP DR. SILAS YEGO

Processional Hymn Viewing of the Body Opening Prayer Hymn Readings 2 Corinthians 4: 16-18 2 Timothy 4: 6 - 7 Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 Eulogy Esther Koimett Hymn Word of Encouragement Hymn Tributes Mrs Hannie Biwott Children Grandchildren Friends and colleagues Government Political Leaders Prayer for the Family Vote of Thanks Titus Biwott Announcements Mark Chirchir Closing Prayer Benediction Family proceeds for final burial rites at the graveside For directions to the Funeral please input the following coordinates in maps.google.com N 00 30 03.32 E 035 30 53.08. Ensure that location service on you device is on to allow for directions. SCRIPTURES

2 Corinthians 4: 16-18

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Timothy 4: 6-7

For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Ecclesiastis 3:1-4 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be bom and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance. EULOGY

HON. KIPYATOR NICHOLAS KIPRONO BIWOTT, EGH STATESMAN, PATRIOT AND PHILANTHROPIST 1940 - 2017

We gather here today as family, friends and admirers of Kipyator Nicholas Kiprono Biwott, to mourn his passing but above all to celebrate his life and to give thanks for it.

We have come to remember and honour him, and to praise a remarkable man - a statesman, politician and a businessman - who gave life-long service to his country and to his community, and to cherish him as a husband, father, grand-father, great-grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle, a generous friend, and ever-wise counsellor.

Nicholas Biwott was born in Chebior village, , 77 years ago. By the time of his passing he had been a civil servant; a Member of Parliament for 28 years; held office at the highest levels of government, working with three of 's presidents; and built up numerous successful businesses employing thousands of people.

Throughout his life Biwott was an achiever, a man who got things done.

The young Nicholas Biwott was greatly inspired and encouraged by his mother, Maria Soti. It was she who impressed upon him the importance of kindness.

I remember dad recounting a memory from his childhood, how at the start of the school term, when many children streamed past their homestead, tired after a long journey on the way to school; his mother would bring them into their home to sleep, be fed and refreshed before continuing on their way. And remarkably for those times, because we are talking about the 1940's, our grandmother imbued in him the need, regardless of background, for both boys and girls to be treated equally. It was an idea that stayed with him for the rest of his life.

He himself achieved excellence in education, gaining a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Economic and Political Science and a Diploma in Public Administration. As he was the first African student to arrive for studies in , he was greeted by a delegation of Malaysian students. One day he told us: "On arrival at the airport in Australia, I was greeted by The Asian Student Association in a special van, expecting an extra-tall, big muscled African man, and were surprised at the 5 foot 4 person in front of them". This self-deprecating humour was always present with him.

As a teenager our dad worked alongside his father Cheserem, an industrious and entrepreneurial man, who became a successful fruit and vegetable trader in . From him, Biwott learned about running and expanding a business, showing that great acumen for which he was later famous.

BUSINESSMAN By the late 1960s Biwott got his own start by forming ABC Foods selling food and animal feed products. In 1969, aged 29, he purchased the Eldoret Town International Harvester dealership and purchased Kipsinende, his dairy farm in the same year. In 1972 he started an import-export business; in 1974 he purchased two wheat farms; and in 1977 he purchased a local airline operator, now known as Air Kenya and continued to start and grow businesses until his death.

JAMIN NETANYAHU PUBLIC SERVANT

But a man of Biwott's great talent, energy and foresight had more to do, and more to give to his country. After leaving school in 1959, he worked as a journalist at the Department of Information in Eldoret, after which he published the Kalenjin Monthly newsletter with Kendagor Bett.

Upon returning from Australia, he re-entered public service as a District Officer in Nkubu, South Imenti Division of Meru in 1964. And there started his lifelong great love for the Meru people.

It was good training for the life he was to lead but it was also something to which Biwott was naturally suited, for he came to know every household in Nkubu and got to know and understand the personalities of the many people he dealt with. As a young District Officer, he was involved in the resettlement of previously European-owned land through the 'Land Transfer' programme and played a central role in rehabilitating and resettling the Mau Mau. Senator Kiraitu Murungi's dad was one of them.

In 1968, Biwott returned to public service after completing his higher education and worked as the Personal Assistant to the Minister of Agriculture Bruce Mckenzie, helping to guide Kenya's early policy for Agriculture. He also participated in the development of ports, railways and the East African Airways.

As Senior Secretary to the Treasury (1970-1972) he was instrumental in the establishment of the French School in Nairobi, now the Lycee Denis Diderot; the French Cultural Centre, with the Alliance Francaise; and the German Frederick Ebert Stiffung Foundation with the Goethe Institut. As Senior Secretary, he started the foreign aid department, later called, external resources department.

! As Under Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs (1974-1978) Biwott worked with the Organisation of African Unity promoting the 'good neighbourliness' policy with the countries bordering Kenya.

And so it was that in 1979, Biwott became Member of Parliament for Keiyo-Marakwet and later for Keiyo South constituency. In all, he served 28 years as a Member of Parliament. For Biwott it was perhaps the part of his life for which he felt the greatest pride, for he had a great love for his local community and he never tired helping and representing them. In fact, whether in Nairobi or returning from international travel, he would always make time to go to his constituency every weekend.

At the same time, he was constantly inspired by the challenges of government office, he served in 8 Ministries, 5 of which he was the Cabinet Minister:

- As Minister of State in the Office of the President (1979-1982), Nicholas Biwott was instrumental in what he regarded as one of his greatest achievements, the establishment of the Kenya Medical Research Institute to carry out health science research in Kenya, work which KEMRI continues to this day.

- In 1982, as Minister of Regional Development, Science and Technology, he created the Lake Basin and the Kerio Valley Development Authorities.

- From September 1983 to January 1991, as Minister of Energy, he was driven to aid in establishing the National Oil Corporation; building storage facilities and pipelines from Mombasa to Nairobi

CH^\R!\ and onto Eldoret and . He oversaw major advances in improving Kenya's electricity supply including the Masinga Multi Purpose Dam, the Kiambere Hydro Electric Dam and the Turkwel Hydro Electric Multi Purpose Dam, which added 106MW to the National grid. This is to-date, the most reliable hyrdo-power station in Kenya.

- As Minister of East African and Regional Co-operation in 1997, he played a key role in co-ordinating the Common Market for East Africa - COMESA, becoming its chairman and chairman of the East Africa Council of Ministers.

- As Minister of Trade & Industry, Tourism and, East African Cooperation (1999-2002) he established the Small Medium Trade Trust Fund with the European Union. He introduced an Intellectual Property Bill which was passed as an Act, accomplished a free trade area with COMESA, and established the Africa Trade Insurance Agency to provide cover for foreign investments against political risk. He was praised as "The best Minister of Tourism in 25 years" and "The hardest working Minister of Tourism Kenya had ever had".

- Finally, he always set a positive example in how to conduct oneself in loss. Even after he lost his parliamentary seat in 2007 and was subsequently defeated in his bid to become Elgeyo-Marakwet's senator in 2013, after each election result was announced, Biwott immediately conceded defeat and thereafter helped his winning opponent to carry out their duties and represent their constituents.

Nicholas Biwott was a statesman in thought, word and deed.

SPONSOR OF EDUCATION

His other passion was for the development of education in Kenya, particularly the education of girls, through the building of numerous schools, including the Maria Soti Educational Centre, a model school for girls from all backgrounds built as a tribute to his mother, as well as the Biwott Secondary School. He played an active role in raising funds for the building of many other colleges and educational projects. Perhaps his greatest pride was helping elevate the Keiyo school district to one of the top in the nation through investment and tireless harambees, the fact that he conducted 18 harambees in one day made him a legend.

Throughout his adult life Nicholas Biwott, both directly and indirectly, helped train and educate many thousands of young people and helped to provide them with the skills for life and work.

He was the founder and patron of the Keiyo South Education Foundation that provides bursaries to needy students for primary and secondary education. And, there were the private financial assistance that Nicholas Biwott made to thousands of other youth to help them pay for their education and start their careers.

He also led development of multiple health and medical service projects, including at least two sub-district hospitals, three health centres and eight dispensaries that we know of.

And very close to heart, although again few people knew of it, were Nicholas Biwott's many years of work and support for the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya, of which from 1980 he was a member and trustee of the Management Committee, and the Advocacy, Publicity and Fundraising Committee, and ultimately its chairman.

Nicholas never sought recognition for his generosity, so many good deeds that he quietly did throughout his life went unheralded. The names of those who Nicholas helped privately fund their education is legion. If he came upon a widow with a child he helped educate that child; if they were sick he paid the hospital bills. If help was required, Nicholas Biwott turned up, however busy, and later even when he was unwell. In the past several days, we have received testaments of gratitude from hundreds of people whose lives he changed by his generosity, inspiration and counsel.

A highly successful man, Biwott always remained true to his Keiyo background and roots. Attested to by the fact that many of his closest friends remained his boyhood friends.

To his family, friends and close colleagues, he was a man to whom a smile readily came to his face, with a sparkling wit; and a very funny story teller.

He was a man who had a passion for life and loved to get on with life. Whether it was the prospect of a day with his family, or business or political meetings, our dad got up very early full of positive energy and passion and lived each day fully.

His legacy as a public servant, statesman and entrepreneur is part of the fabric of Kenya today. His inspiration and help to so many young people will live on in the lives that they lead and the inspiration, example and help that they in turn give to others.

It is with immense gratitude that we celebrate the life of a great patriot, Nicholas Biwott, who's left an extraordinary legacy for Kenya and its young enterprising talent.

To his family and friends Nicholas Biwott will forever remain in our fond memories with gratitude and love in our hearts. TRIBUTES

MRS HANNIE K1PRONO BIWOTT

We have come here not just to mourn the loss of a truly noble man, but to thank God for having granted us the privilege of having lived in his shadow.

His father was the first Keiyo to convert to Christianity. Being a trader and understanding the value of education and commerce, he educated all his children. His mother was a charitable institution all on her own. Never would Nicholas let down these inspiring parents.

At his primary school Nicholas met a teacher, the future President. President Moi had and always would have high work ethics. He was to become Nicholas' role model and my rival for Nicholas' love.

Never would Nicholas pride himself on his good deeds, seek to elevate himself through connections, try to curry favor through flattery or, putting it bluntly, throw names. Till the end he remained a humble man, never seeking recognition for his generosity.

I know myself in this church to be surrounded by people of all tribes, of all walks of life, who have benefitted from Nicholas' kindness, his wisdom or simply his support.

I am privileged to have been his wife for fifty-two years and the mother, grandmother and great-grandmother of his family.

I am here to thank God for having been awarded that favour. May I never let down either God or my now deceased husband, Nicholas Biwott. CHILDREN DAD Maria - Thank you for giving me your mother's name. Thank you for the lunch dates, the love, the mentorship and most important the TIME. Thank you for the memories. You were my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye.

Manu - Dad would walk into the office to find me working on my computer and he'd say "hiyo computer yako inakuambia nini leo...?" My dad never understood how people today relied so much on computers. He was always practical and tagged me along whenever he wanted me to learn something he was doing. I enjoyed how he taught me how to do things, at times he would tell me to listen to someone whom he knew was the best. When I wasn't receptive to his ideas or when I thought I knew better, he would tell me "fuata yangu..." which he would explain by saying "I'm only telling you this because I care."

Gloria - Whenever I rang my dad he would answer by singing "Gloria in excelsis Deo..." setting the mood for conversation and instantly my face would beam. Whenever he suspected that I'm troubled about a thing, he would start singing "whatever will be will be..." effortlessly singing my anxiety away.

Klara - I was once anxious about the launch of a project. I remember Daddy saying, "Klara, this is your time to shine, don't let anything or anyone steal your glory." We all know he had a way with words. Like magic he could calm you down, regenerate your spirit and confidence, all while reminding you to believe in yourself. I'll miss you Daddy - beyond words!

Rita - You told me that I am your medicine It was you who made me strong. Thank you so much.

Rhoda - When I was a baby and he was a student in Melbourne, he used to study with me on his lap. And 50 years later, two weeks ago, while he was in hospital we sat together laughing while watching Jemutai of Churchill live on YouTube.

Esther - Maendeleo you were a very fascinating man and a man of great wisdom. I learnt so much from you - the way you simplified complex issues and found solutions where none seemed to exist, the way you stayed above negativity and pettiness and always maintained your objectivity, your attention to detail and ability to stay the course on any issue that mattered, your ability to be strong and cool-headed in the face of adversity, your immense generosity and your visionary leadership. I will forever be grateful for your example. Rute ne tala!

Rute ne tala!, Oboo GRAND CHILDREN KUGS Eli - When I was little, my favorite part of coming to Kenya, was your surprise visits in your helicopter. 1 remember being up country with my parents and you would come whisk my sisters and me away from whatever we were doing. I don't remember what the helicopter felt like, but I remember your face when we landed at Maria Soti School. You would show us around beaming with pride, introducing us to all the girls. You never told me that you had built the school. Instead you told us, "there is nothing girls cannot do."

Vivi - When I was three years old, you were sitting on our couch with your feet up. I waddled up to you and pushed your legs saying "move!!" in order to cross. Instead of scolding me for pushing you to make way for my little self, you praised me for being a strong and unafraid little girl who reminded you of our grandmother whom you loved so much for being just that. Since then, you constantly told this story to show how proud you were of the girls you raised. Thank you for believing in, championing and raising your daughters and granddaughters into strong and empowered women.

Tashi - What I learned from you, while interviewing you for a university paper is that you were brilliant at decoding politics. The insights you shared with me about President Paul Kagame proved that you had a unique inside and outside perspective on African and International politics that was unparalleled by any academic papers that I have read. I am so proud of you.

Hugo - A memory that has stuck with me throughout my life is when you told me to never let bullies influence my happiness and to always be strong. This teaching has greatly shaped me and my outlook on life.

Cici - You were so proud of your family. It was so validating that such a successful man could be so proud of his grandchildren going to school and working hard. That you spoke so highly of mum when you introduced me as her kid, made me feel so part of your life and not so distant. I will always remember you dancing with me at upcountry weddings, long chats and laughter at weekends at the farm and how you showered me with so much unconditional grandparent love.

Victor - I appreciate everything you gave me... the life long values of hard work and doing right. I faced difficulties at school. But you taught me to value discipline and focus which you taught by example. Each time we would speak you asked me how my grades were. You never stopped asking. Even through my masters in International Relations. You were so interested.

Adam - Before I did anything I'd ask myself "what would Kugo do?

Arianna - How he listened to me, that I will miss the most. iharon - Welcoming you home two weeks ago was an honor that I will forever be thankful for. I remember you lying on your favorite couch, fully renewed with energy and excited about life. With your usual wit and warm smile you turned and said "I want you to teach me facebook and Whatsapp. I want to be modern and see when things go viral". You appreciated that there were things your grandchildren knew a little more than you did.

Kipro - Dear Kugs, thanks once more for the advice. Your door was always open and there was everything there, especially laughter that often turned to great counsel. I will replay the moments as we move forward. Your ability to face challenges will always be a source of strength. Go well, knowing I will not let you down.

Kipchumba - Kugo was a great inspiration to me. I will always remember that every time I would visit him he would always ask, "Sasa vijana wanasema nini". He was always interested in the development of the youth in general but also very interested in what we were up to in our lives. He was always ready to listen and advise us and was always proud and supportive of our endeavors and would encourage us to grow. But he was also the first to point out when we strayed from our path. I shall truly miss his wise counsel, his support and his very very interesting stories that made every single visit memorable for me. Sleep well Kugo. We will miss u.

SISTERS You touched and changed all our lives. You invested in the education of our children to levels we could only dream of. You shared your wisdom and gave our families' jobs and opportunities. We love you and we will tell the future generations about our Karnet (Our Pillar).

COUSINS Chitab oret, Kongoi mising. You provided exemplary leadership to our family, which ensured that we will all live in harmony. There is not one of us whose life you did not touch. You were generous with your time, wise counsel and material support and for that we say thank you. We would not have liked for you to go but since God decided to take you, we accept. Fair thee well brother, fair thee well!

NIECES Uncle you have been our father figure. You have taught us so much about character, service, and excellence. You have taught us to keep family close, to serve with all diligence and to love all people. We will always lookup to you, cherish you and miss you. You have left an imprint on our hearts forever.

NEPHEWS You have been our greatest source of inspiration and courage. Deep in our hearts we will always keep your image: humility, bravery and love. We will forever miss you.