Mike had a deep passion for mathematics, nature, cycling, and hiking. We traveled together for work and explored mountains such as Mt. Elgon, Mt. Mtelo, Nasolot Hills, and many more.

Mike was genuinely kind-hearted—to anyone, and I mean anyone. It didn’t matter whether you were family or a stranger on the street.

I will miss him deeply—as a colleague, brother, and friend—and especially his signature greeting, “OMERA,” whenever we saw each other after a long time. Rest in Peace Ja Homa Bay.

This photo collage is more that a collection of images but a visual strory of where we started to how far we have come over the years. From climbing the hills to flying over mountains to co-founding EduTab! What a journey!

I will remmber you for the sharp intelect, seeing possibilities when faced with limits and abilities to push boundaries, not just for you, but for everyone around you and you ever kind nature to anyone who crossed your path.

I will miss seeing how your face lit up everytime we met, Mike.

I will miss you osiepna. Nind gi kwe wuod Mumbo. Untill we meet again.

Mike and I came to know each other for the first time early 2008 on the day we joined St.Ignatius Mukumu Boys high school in kakamega county as form ones.The four years though too academic,presented us with many other opportunities including interacting,bettering friendship and encouraging each other to excellence.Mike was very good in mathematics and I was a star in Business studies.We both lit each other to shine.

Mike proceeded to maseno University as I joined Kenyatta university for tertiary studies.We stayed connected and the last time I physically met Mike was one evening opposite maseno university main gate,Mike was then at maseno as a facilitator of a certain workshop and I was heading to guardian bus office for a night journey to Nairobi.

The sad news of Mike's demise broke and shook me,todate it's still unbelievable!! Mike was great soul.

Titus Angaya Odongo.

The first time I met Mike was at Kongoni Community Library during the launch of the foldscope microscope with the Edutab Organisation. From that moment, it was clear, Mike wasn’t just another official. He was the energy in the room. A vibe. A force. A visionary.

Mike was incredibly resourceful, a true team builder, and above all, a leader with a heart for impact. He brought people together, inspired action, and made every project feel purposeful.

You've left us far too soon, Mike. But your presence, your passion, and your light will echo in our hearts forever. You’ve made your mark and it will never fade.

Rest well, legend

Clinton Sifuna

KCL- Student

In 2014, at a Math camp at Maseno University, I met a boy whose presence would leave an indelible mark on my life. He wore white, and even then, his humble heart stood out more than his attire. Little did I know that this encounter would blossom into a lasting friendship, one filled with kindness, laughter, and shared moments of genuine understanding.

From that day onward, he became a close friend—a friend who had a way of making everyone feel at ease, someone who made you feel important, no matter the situation. His humility was evident in every interaction, and his generosity was unparalleled. We laughed, we struggled through problems together, and we supported each other through life’s ups and downs. Through it all, his heart remained gentle and his spirit unwavering.

As I reflect on the years of friendship, I remember not just the conversations we had, but the silent strength he provided—always present, always steady. He was more than a friend; he was a source of comfort, wisdom, and compassion.

Though he is no longer with us, his legacy remains. His humble heart and unwavering kindness continue to inspire me. He taught me the value of genuine friendship, of being there for others, and the quiet strength of humility. These lessons, which he embodied so effortlessly, will continue to guide me for the rest of my life.

In April 2025, the world lost a kind soul. But heaven gained someone who, I am sure, will continue to shine brightly. Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your memory will forever live in my heart.

In 2020, during the lockdown, Mike informed me about a program that he and his colleagues at Edutab were facilitating to teach children how to code. His zeal for teaching was truly inspiring. He offered to teach my daughter coding, and not only guided her through the technical skills but also consistently checked in to see how she was progressing. His kindness and mentorship extended well beyond the classroom.

Just last month, Mike reached out again, asking how his former student was doing. I told my daughter that Mr. Mike—as we fondly called him—had inquired about her, and we had plans to reconnect through an online call to catch up.

Sadly, before we could have that conversation, I came across the heartbreaking news of his passing. It was such a shock, and it still feels surreal.

Mike, you touched our lives with your generosity, warmth, and dedication. We will dearly miss you.

Rest in eternal peace.

"Hello Elizabeth, receive our message of quick recovery and healing to your dear husband. From Edutab, we shall step in for you in next week's training. You don't have to worry about anything because that’s our little way of helping you for now. Patrick and I will be stepping in on your behalf (don’t worry about BC for now)."

That message, and his unwavering kindness, meant the world to me.

Now that you are gone, Mike, I am still in shock. It’s hard to believe you’re no longer with us. I pray that God comforts your loved ones and friends during this incredibly painful time. Your light, your laughter, and your leadership will be dearly missed.

Rest in peace, dear friend.

He was kind enough to me and allows me to explore by asking him questions : a time when I was starting my company.

You helped me and I am deeply grateful yet sad that you passed on.

Thank you Mike.

Later in 2018, he co-founded Edutab Africa. He kept on being a member of the EdTech East Africa community.

We met and talked at the EE4A conference in Tom Mboya university, that EdTech East Africa had an EdTech track in. We were having our Western Kenya EdTech Summit there. I reminded him of the first time we met.

He was one of the presenters of a case study on how they were using mobile phones to integrate playful learning in schools. https://edtech-eastafrica.com/2023/12/15/edtech-a-piece-in-the-puzzle-ee4a-2023-insights-on-the-crucial-role-of-evidence-in-education-reform/

Since EdTech East Africa had grown and we were looking for 10 year founding impact stories for the EdTech Summit 2024, I mentioned him among the earlier members I had seen grow. He was gracious enough to share his journey with Edutab Africa.

Mike, you will be missed by many. Go well my friend.

I first met Mike during the launch of Uptyke Business Consulting in November 2024, I admired how passionate he was in edtech, I got to learn about Edutab Africa in the event and also in the Focus Group Discussions that Uptyke conducted. What stood out was his passion for better learning outcomes for every child in Kenya. Plus we kept meeting in several edtech events at iHUB where I used to work.

Our paths crossed again in March 2025 during the ToT for the SIDP project by British Council, Kenya where I had the privilege of being trained by him. Over lunch break, together with his colleague Patrick Njoroge we usually took time to have a check-in and catch up on matters edtech and how this project aligned to the bigger vision of promoting edtech in Kenya. His signature hand clap 'And Because of that...' has been ringing on my mind for the longest time, since it just had a way of making the classes very lively.

His ability to make the sessions fun and engaging is something that we will miss. How he connected with each person in class at a personal level was quite heartwarming. My heart goes out to the family, friends and colleagues, not forgetting all the lives he touched. May God grant us peace and comfort during this difficult time.

He will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Rest easy Mike.

Christine Ombima - Community Level Trainer (SIDP- Bristish Council Kenya)

Mildred

“Hello Martin, This is Mike Mumbo from Edutab Africa Allow me to pass my congratulatory remarks to you for joining the Fablearn Fellow cohort 3. I have realised that we are three Kenyans in the team and I thought it would be good to connect with each other even as we start this journey.” This was the introductory mail I received on 15/2/2021 when Brenda, Mike and I had just joined the 3^rd cohorts of Fablearn Fellowship by Columbia University. Mike quickly became a good friend; introducing me to friends and opportunity. Before long, he told me about the SAFE INTERNET DAY event which was to be celebrated in Kisumu. This is how he introduced me & Fablab Winam to Watoto Watch & Child Tech Consortium. It’s very difficult to talk about Mike because his jovial face keeps beaming in my memories. Mike was a sharp guy, dedicated and connector. May he rest in power

Mike was more than just a colleague and friend—he was a bright soul whose passion for education and technology touched so many lives. Through his work at EduTab, he didn’t just advocate for EdTech; he lived it. He believed in the power of technology to uplift communities, and he gave his all to ensure that education was accessible, engaging, and empowering. Together with his team, he played a big part in testing our innovation at Malindi for Offline eLearning Solutions (OES)

His jovial spirit, warm smile, and willingness to help made him a joy to be around.

We have lost a true friend and a visionary. But in our grief, we also celebrate a life that was lived with purpose, joy, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.

With heartfelt sympathy,

Maina

I do not know where to start. How can I. My only hope is that somehow your pain is gone, you are at peace, and one day we shall meet again in whatever realm.

I knew you as a lover of life, nature, people, math, and probably many other things that I never got to learn about you.

I will forever cherish you as my friend and I am glad the world got to know you and your work through the many platforms where you shared your knowledge across the globe.

I just remebered, you owed me a book. I really thought one day we could write that book together, but now it seems a gap has been established. No promises, but I will do my best.

It is never easy to say goodbye, but as we all know, it is a fate that we all will face one day, yours just came sooner than we all hoped. You were clearly loved by many and may your love endure.

Goodbye

Rest easy champion

~Brenda

Mike was good. Mike was visionary, he had great plans for himself and for the company, Edutab. Through him, I got to know about the 3 musketeers (Mike, Maxwel and Patrick), the co-founders of a company that they have nurtured and has grownd over time.

Thinking about Mike’s life reminds me words of Beyoncé’s song “I was here” This is the song I’ll use to mourn my dear friend:

“I want to leave my footprints on the sands of time

Know there was something that, something that I left behind

When I leave this world, I'll leave no regrets

Leave something to remember, so they won't forget

I was here, I lived, I loved, I was here

I did, I've done, everything that I wanted

And it was more than I thought it would be

I will leave my mark so everyone will know I was here

I wanna say I lived each day, until I died

I know that I had something in somebody's life

The hearts I have touched, will be the proof that I leave

That I made a difference and this world will see

I just want them to know

That I gave my all, did my best

Brought someone some happiness

Left this world a little better just because

I was here “

Rest well osiepa, Rest well champ

You will be dearly missed.

~Ruphie

We met in 2019 in Kenya. He and Patrick showed up at a teachers' training I was leading and we immediately connected. I found this old post that shows a bit of the enthusiasm of those days (https://www.facebook.com/SeedScienceproject/posts/pfbid02mKbE3sUNGZhfp7GuRbK81we47sK5eXX4MoVFVMH5PaPKxqEYUTs83gmC9Byp423yl).

It was easy working with Mike, and it was even easier to be his friend. We stayed in touch throughout the years, collaborated from time to time, thinking of building something bigger together.

I remember when he travelled to Tanzania, all the way from Kenya to visit me there and give a workshop for our teachers. The photo is from those days, in 2022. He came totally at his own expense to network, share and learn.

Mike was a visionary and I was so happy when just a few months ago he told me he had become a National Geographic Explorer and I could feel his enthusiasm and pride.

I was looking forward to meeting again, to continuing learning together. We will continue, Mike, we will bring on your legacy, we'll deeply miss you and never forget you. Rest in peace, my friend.

I don’t think I have enough words to express how shocked I am about this sad news. I have spent the day thinking about you and all the zoom calls we had during the last two years. You always made me laugh and think about the biggest challenges. Thank you for that!

I can’t believe that we were just about to meet in person for the first time in a month… but life is funny sometimes and has interesting twists… I just hope you find peace and rest well. We will honor your memory and work 🤍

The DevTech Team.

Mike was more than family. He was a light in our lives—a brilliant mind, a kind heart, and a global leader whose impact stretched far beyond borders. His intellect was undeniable, but what made him truly extraordinary was the way he combined his brilliance with deep compassion and unwavering generosity.

Mike never hesitated to offer support, whether it was to his immediate family or someone across the globe who simply needed a helping hand. He led with empathy, inspired with action, and loved with a sincerity that touched everyone who knew him.

His achievements were many, but he never sought the spotlight. Instead, he lifted others into it—mentoring, guiding, and encouraging us to dream bigger and do better. Mike showed us that true leadership means service, humility, and heart.

When you called me to hook you up with a gastroenterologist, it was so casual I didn't expect that it would end up in death.

We will miss you deeply, but we will carry forward the light you shone on this world. Rest well, dear cousin. Your brilliance will never fade.

From cousin

Dr Agutu Silas

When I came to see you in the hospital, I thought it was just another routine visit after a medical check-up. I never imagined it would be the last time I would see your warm smile and hear your gentle voice.

Mike, you had a kind and loving heart—always thoughtful, always full of life. You welcomed me not just as family, but as a friend. Your presence brought light into every room, and your absence now leaves a silence that words cannot fill.

Mum keeps asking me where you are. It’s hard to explain, because even we are still coming to terms with this loss. Your memory lives on in our hearts, in our conversations, and in the many lives you touched with your grace.

You will be dearly missed, Mike. Rest well, shemeji.

With love,

Emily Yogo

I will miss you deeply! I met Mike in 2023, but every interaction looked like I had known him for ages. I will miss you M ike and I will miss 'Omera Buana'. Rest in Peace!

I am unable to confine you into a few lines

I enjoyed working with you

I had the most fulfilling conversations with you about life, work, poetry, cars, food, language, simply anything!

You taught me to live life to the fullest, spread love, and tackle everything with passion.

I'm so heartbroken by your demise

I ache for me

But more so

For your family and Edutab

And most

For my brother Patrick and Maxwell.

Mike,

How will we move on from here?

I'm still wondering how death chooses it's victims

And I'm still asking why God couldn't look at just 1/the many good deeds you possessed to preserve your life.

I will miss you

I will miss the nairobi-kitale car conversations

And the dinners after a long field-work day will crave the echo of your laughter

My family home will miss your visits.

I find strength knowing I reminded you of how much you are loved by me.

You fought a good fight Mike

But you've rested too soon💔

With heartbreak and agony,

Wanja.

I worked with Mike briefly to recruit students for the African Science Academy (ASA) in Ghana. Outside of his professional ethics, Mike was such a warm spirited person who made everyone feel welcome. It was one of the most impactful collaborations I had during my time at ASA. I hope he was well appreciated when he was here with us. May be remembered beautifully.

Rest well, Mike

I will miss your loud laugh and having conversations of how we need to develop our rural place.

Mike may the Lord God recieve you in heaven with open arms.

Rest in peace Jatelo.

With love Robert Omondi

You made learning fun and always wanted the best for learners.

The last time we spoke you reminded me to keep growing and learning.

"I am passing by but it's late so I decided to call. "

Your laughter, your zeal and your soft spoken buy loud voice will forever me missed.

Rest easy my friend.

May your soul find solace ,till we meet again😓

The last time we met in person was last November at the International Schools Expo at The Hub in Karen. I remember jokingly asking if he was looking for a school for his kids -he burst out laughing. Of course, he wasn’t there for that; he was doing what he always did :checking out eLearning platforms to see how EduTab could improve them. We spoke for over an hour, laughing like we did in old times. I had no idea that would be the last time I'd see him in person.

Not long after, when we were supposed to catch up , Mike told me he’d been briefly hospitalized. We both shrugged it off as a 'minor set back ' as he said he’d be out in two days .

About a week before his departure , he setup a meeting with Lazarus and Patrick, and when he wasn't able to join us I thought he just needed more rest. Everything felt normal -until it wasn’t.

It’s hard to accept that his life ended in its prime.

Still, I’m holding on to our last conversation. I’ll carry that vision forward, especially the plans with The Kilgoris Project, even though it breaks my heart he won’t be there to see it through.

Thank you, Mike for your kindness, your curiosity, your drive to bridge gaps in tech, and most of all, for being such a genuine friend. My family will always hold on to that beautiful afternoon at The Hub.

Rest easy, my friend

Buya Mukonzo

I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mike.
I first met him at Kasidi School during a KPLAY class observation, where he had come alongside Maxwell and Patrick. From our very first conversation about coding with Scratch for learners, it was clear how passionate and visionary Mike was. Over time, we became close friends, and it was Mike who introduced me to Edutab — a gesture that truly transformed my teaching journey.

Mike constantly encouraged me to grow into a better version of a 21st-century teacher. During the various Scratch competitions with IREX KPLAY in 2024, he always took a keen interest in the projects I prepared with my learners. He never hesitated to offer his advice, reminding me always to infuse Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into my work, to ensure that beyond skills, the emotional needs of the learners were also well cared for.

Mike's impact on my professional and personal life will remain unforgettable. I will forever cherish his kindness, wisdom, and encouragement. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find strength during this difficult time.

With deepest sympathy,
Joel Kahindi

Kasidi school- Rabai

Our last engagement was in February during safer internet day at Manor House in Kitale,It's painful for me,our interaction was very cordial,I will miss those moments.Mike ,you were a person with a good heart,may you rest in peace.#RIP a blessed soul

I feel so special and honoured to have met and known you even if it was for a short while. You are certainly missed... I wish I could share another meal with you.

Thank you for being an amazing mentor and an even wonderful friend. I believe we'll meet again in Heaven. Rest easy legend 🤍🕊.

I hope the organization outlives him

I’m still trying to process the loss of my friend, mentor, and colleague, Mumbo. Honestly, I was not prepared for it, and I don't think I ever will be.

The thought that I won’t see you again, won’t hear your voice, won’t laugh with you—it still feels unreal. I keep thinking about all the times I would tease you when your favourite football team lost because of some silly mistake. I think about the evening walks, when my mind was all over the place and you would just walk beside me—no judgment, no rush, just listening, making everything feel a little lighter even when life felt too heavy. The random meals, we had at different food gems, with your saying, "before anything eat first", Thinking about the random brain teasers games that you came up with leaving us with the wonder question, your desk just sits there, and I’ll miss turning to you to ask a quick question, showing you something random, or asking, “Hey, have you seen this?” I’ll miss your thoughtful look, your easy laugh, and the way you always took a moment to think before giving your opinion. Those small moments—they meant more than I ever realized.

I want you to be at peace, but it’s hard. I still hear your voice in my head and see your big, vibrant smile, like you’re just about to ask a question or share some good advice.

You always believed in people, I included, even when they didn’t believe in themselves. You impacted so many lives—friends, students, teachers, even strangers.

I remember one afternoon having lunch at one of the restaurants, when the waiter came over to serve us and you struck up a conversation not even knowing him. Within minutes, you discovered he had dreams of growing his skills on tech but some life circumstances would not allow him, and without hesitation, you shared simple, practical advice on how to start small without overwhelming himself in both time, and fees for the program he wanted. That’s just who you were—always helping, always encouraging, always seeing the best in everyone.

You lived your life with so much intention. You always said, "Un día a la vez"—one day at a time—and you truly lived that way. Every day you tried to make a difference, and you did. Working beside you was a blessing, and I learned so much from you. The impact you created through your work will live on—the teachers you trained, the children you taught, the friends you walked with. Your love for mathematics, nature, and learning was endless, and your curiosity was something else amazing. You made people want to learn more, do more, and be better just by being yourself. Even though you’re not here to see it, the ripple of what you started will keep moving through all of us you left behind. There are so many memories I could share, but they can’t even fit in these few words.

The last time we met, I should have hugged you a little longer, if only i knew it would be the last time. But I’m thankful for every moment we shared—every laugh, every lesson, every random conversation—because knowing you, learning from you, and working together, it was a blessing I will always carry in my heart. Now when I think of you, I picture you at peace, smiling, probably challenging the angels to a math brain teaser, listening to some local music , just like you loved. Even though it still hurts and the tears still come, I find a small smile through it all, knowing you are well.

I will miss you, I miss you,

Until we meet again, I will hold onto all the memories, all the lessons, and all the laughter. Rest well Mike.

It is well with my soul.

I first met Mike in 2022 in Kitale. From that moment, his presence was unforgettable. Always jovial, always smiling, Mike carried a joy that was contagious. He had a way to make even the dullest of days brighter, and conversations with him were never ordinary. There was always laughter, always warmth, and always some creative way to sneak in a math problem or a thought-provoking challenge.

Mike had a unique gift, he changed the way I viewed Mathematics. To him, it wasn’t just numbers and formulas; it was a lens through which we could understand life. He saw patterns, solutions, beauty, and he shared that view with such ease that you couldn't help but be inspired.

I will deeply miss those small math discussions we used to have, those moments that seemed trivial at the time but now hold immense meaning. More than the equations, it was the bond we shared that made them special.

There is so much more I could say about Mike, but somehow, words fall short. He was important to me in ways that go beyond explanation. What I do know is that I will always cherish the time we spent together, the lessons he taught me, and the laughter we shared.

Rest well, Mike. You will always be remembered with love, respect, and a grateful heart.

Mike, thank you for your generosity and leadership. Rest in peace.

Camille Bouvet-Boisclair

On the 20th day of August,2012 we became new friends at Maseno University. You were such a humble and jovial lad who had zero boundaries to anyone. A dedicated christian under the Seventh Day Adventist Church who held leadership roles at MUSDA back then. Your zeal and passion for Mathematics drove forces at the School of Mathematics under Prof. Oleche. To me, you made mathematics look like an art or something because your brilliance and problem solving skills were top notch.

Now that you're gone, who will pay me a visit at Rusinga Island for the Annual Rusinga Festival? "Adhi chamo aliya gi ng'a? (Who will help me eat aliya). 😭😭

Expressing your sudden fall can take me a whole year or even a decade but God always makes His plans clear. Shine on your way brother until we meet again on that beautiful shore.

Gutted!!!😔😔😔

When I told him about what I do with Tabasamu na Upendo, he smiled and said he loved the name. From then on, every time we met, he would say, “How are you, Tabasamu na Upendo?” We would laugh every single time.

Later, both our organizations joined the Child Tech Consortium. We almost always sat next to each other during meetings. When I didn’t understand something, Mike would explain it kindly. If my laptop had issues, he was always ready to help.

We started planning how he would help me create a mentorship curriculum for Tabasamu na Upendo through storytelling. Mike promised to support me with it, and I was so excited to work with him.

He was also my photographer after every meeting—he never said no, no matter how many pictures I asked him to take. He was patient and kind.

When he came back from Washington Dc, I was so happy for him. I jokingly said, eeeh naona umeomoka—we all laughed, celebrated his trip, and he shared his experiences with so much joy.

Mike, you were a bright light. Always smiling, always helping. It’s hard to believe you are gone. My heart is heavy.

But I promise to finish the mentorship curriculum, just like we planned. You would have loved it.

May your legacy live on in the lives of those you touched over the years.

Rest in peace, Mike.💔

Till we meet again.🕊

Mercy Pendo

I just found out of his passing today and I am shocked... I can't believe this, we spoke early in January and sending well wishes for the year 2025 .

Eish this is sad😔 it's heartbreaking 💔.

Rest easy Michael Mumbo.

Back then we visited local schools around Maseno to run maths clubs, which always felt like an adventure, involving some hiking or piling 4 people on a boda boda. In 2019 Mike took us out to Cherangani hills, and a few years later I had the chance to catch up and learn about the new endeavors within EduTab.

Mike was always kind, thoughtful, helpful and jovial, and his excitement was contagious. He was an amazing ambassador for mathematics and a lover of adventures in the outdoors. I am so grateful that I have had the chance to meet you.

I was in shock when I heard the news. You've left us far too soon, when it felt like so many things were still lined up for you in your life!

I wish all the best to your family and success to the EduTab team in overcoming this heartbreaking and difficult loss.

💔 Georg

(Chloe Cipolletta) I was happy to finally have met in person in Nairobi a few months ago, after many exchanges and seeing how passionate and talented, how sad and what a loss, Mike you are leaving too soon…

(Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka )So sad may he rest in peace. May his legacy continue

(Dr. Paula Kahumbu )I’m so saddened to read this. May he rest in eternal peace.

(Joseph Sigani)Oh Michael Mumbo, I met him earlier this year at a workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, and he was healthy and visionary—just like the first time I met him several years ago in Tanzania. May eternal light shine upon him and may he rest in peace.

(Kiki Cheptoo Ng'ok )I remember calling him about the Kenya Hub meet up and he was so excited to meet other Explorers. Loved hearing about his work. I had never really connected Math and conservation, until meeting him. We were so very lucky to meet him before he left. It's such a loss. Thoughts for his family, friends and community.

(Kulani) May his soul rest in peace

(Molly) May the good Lord remember the good works that Michael has done to conserve His creation and his soul rest in eternal peace

(Shiv) What an unbelievable loss. We have been losing so much young talent and passion on this continent 💔 rest in peace brother Mumbo

Though I've known you for a short time, your impact on my life and the lives of countless others is profound and lasting.

Mike you were more than just a colleague or a friend; you were a guiding light. Through your work with EduTab Africa, you championed the cause of accessible digital education, ensuring that digital learning was not just a concept but a reality for many. Your vision went beyond technology—you cared deeply about how it shaped young minds, particularly in safeguarding children in online spaces. Your insights on child protection were not just professional expertise but a personal mission, one you pursued with both wisdom and warmth.

What truly set you apart was your infectious positivity. You had a rare ability to uplift everyone around you, oozing cheerful energy even in the most challenging situations. Whether in meetings, collaborations, or casual conversations, you left an indelible mark—always encouraging, always inspiring.

Though your time with us was cut short, your legacy endures. The knowledge you shared, the lives you touched, and the change you ignited will continue to ripple through the education community and beyond.

Mike, you may be gone, but your light has not dimmed. Thank you for your friendship, your wisdom, and your unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Rest in peace, dear friend. Your work here was a masterpiece.

Titus Elvis Musungu

Missing Child Kenya Foundation

Child Tech Counties Consortium Member.

To the countless lives you touched, thank you for your kindness and inspiration. Your impact reaches far beyond what we can see, and the ripples of your love will continue to spread.

While we all wished for more time with you, we take comfort in knowing that your legacy will flourish and endure. Your spirit will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know you.

Your unwavering faith in Christ reassures us that you are at peace now, resting in His embrace after the trials of this life. We hold onto the hope that we will see you again, and until then, your memory will shine brightly in our hearts.

Thomas Mawora

Mike, may you rest in eternal peace and may the heavens welcome you with joy, for you fought a good fight and fulfilled your mission here on earth.

Wishing the family grace and strength during this difficult time.

Gladys Gatiba, SIDP Project, British Council.

From the first day we worked together in Kenya, he brought warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support into my life. Whether it was through shared laughter at work or his quiet encouragement when I doubted myself, he was always there. Even as I took steps to start a new life in Finland, he cheered me on like only a true friend could.

He believed in me on days when I didn’t even believe in myself.

Losing him leaves a hole that words can’t fully fill, but I hold on to the light he brought into my life. His kindness, strength, and selflessness will stay with me always.

Rest well, my dear friend. You made a difference. And I will never forget you.

April 4, 2019

When I heard of his passing, I kept him in my heart during a family pilgrimage a few weeks ago. May he rest in peace, and may his family find peace in his passing.

(Curtains open to a warm glow from a hearth. Grandma sits wrapped in a kikoi, her weathered hands cradling a wooden staff. Atieno and Otieno settle beside her, eager and fidgety, bathed in the flickering light of the fire.)

Grandma (smiling warmly): My little ones, today you have come so early.

Atieno: (beaming) I was the first, I even made fire. (points proudly to the flames crackling between the three stones) See?

Otieno: (interrupting) She’s fibbing. I came first.

Atieno: (standing)Did not

Otieno: (louder) Did too!

Grandma: (with mock sternness) okay, okay my sweet little darlings, don’t let the fire hear your quarrels,,,,Remember what happened to hyena while arguing with the hare?

Atieno: He got burned and got the spots on his coat

Grandma: (chuckling)Exactly. And I promise you, neither of you would look half as fashionable in spots. Atieno have a seat. Tomorrow, whoever comes first gets the first roasted maize (Otieno sticks his tongue out playfully. Grandma gives him a sternning look and he straightens)

Atieno: So what’s today’s story, grandma? The cunning hare? The magic princess? Or the fierce ogre?

Grandma: (gazing into the fire) Mmmhhh,,,today’s story is very different. It is about a legend

Otieno: (sitting up)Wooow! like Lwanda Magere? Our teacher said we have to share a legend in class

Grandma: Not quite,,,but if we finish early, we might sneak in another legend, hmm?

Otieno: Is it about Mekatilili Wa Menza? (grandma shakes her head) mhhh,,,,Wangari Maathai?

Grandma: Those were good trials my lovelies. I must caution you that not all the legends have gone down in the books of history.  I am pretty sure you have never heard of this one. His name is MICHAEL ACHIENG’ MUMBO. (the kids look puzzled) (teasing) Told you!

Atieno: (curious) What did he do?

Grandma: (smiling)How about we find out in the story?

(The fire dims a little, shifting the mood to reflective. Grandma leans forward)

Grandma: He lived in the 21st century—a time of endless invention. There were strange-sounding fields like FinTech and EdTech. Michael found his home in EdTech. But he didn't just belong there… he lit it up.

Atieno: What did Michael do in this space apart from being in it?

Grandma: He made a difference. He made people feel seen. He touched lives without ever needing to hold hands.

Atieno: How can someone actually touch other peoples lives?

Grandma: Ohh my little darlings, if only you new. Michael was born in a small village called Kamanga. He grew up from a humble background, studied under a tree, took animals to graze in the fields barefoot, him and his friends hunted wild animals and birds and roasted them for meat. I do not remember his exact primary school. After primary school, he joined Mukumu boys high School and later on Maseno University where he studied Mathematics.

Atieno: Math? But you said Edtech. Wasn’t that about computers?

Grandma: The story is just beginning,,,,you see as a lover of math, he always had playful ways of marrying math  with nature making complex math concepts very simple for young ones to understand. He made numbers dance with nature. He found stories in equations. And oh,,, he loved children deeply. Not just loved, he fathered hearts and mentored minds. I wonder where he drew so much love from!

Atieno: Even kids like Billy the bully?

Grandma: Especially Billy. He’d make Billy laugh, then teach him why hurting others never heals us. That’s who Mike was.

(She pauses, eyes glinting with both pride and sorrow)

Grandma: In 2018, he co-founded Edutab Africa. They built digital learning tools, trained teachers, made science joyful. They believed every child deserved wonder. His work echoed beyond borders. But it wasn’t just what he did. It was how he did it—with grace, patience, and quiet fire.

Atieno: I see that’s how he touched lives? Through his dedication and work?

Grandma: There’s more Mi amor. You see,,,

Otieno: (rudely interrupts) (to Atieno): You are too inquisitive. Won’t you at least let the story have a smooth flow without asking questions?

Grandma: ( Gently) (to Otieno): It’s good to ask questions. (to Atieno) it was not just through his work, it was how he lived. Listen to me, he lived with everyone around him. He always left a positive impact on people and most if not all loved him so much. I heard when he returned to the village  people  brought him gifts in form of  vegetables, maize, fruits,  without being asked. It was just love. Because love attracts love. With him you never had to shrink yourself, (looks at Otieno) ‘questions are good’ was his way he related with people. To him , none was stupid, it was always how or what we could learn from it because he stood his grounds that LEARNING NEVER STOPS. He made every day count and he lived by the mantra ‘One day at a time’.

Atieno: (with emphasis) I now see grandma, Mike didn’t just exist, he LIVED.

Grandma: (tearfully)Yes my love ,his heart was bigger than himself!

Otieno: Can someone’s heart be bigger than their body?

Grandma: I love that you have already  learnt to ask questions (chuckles). (her eyes pooled in tears) His heart was big because he gave it to people

Atieno: When you give your heart to people you die!

Grandma: No Mi amor, when you give your heart to people, you live in people’s hearts and yours grow bigger (tears finally drop)

Atieno: (noticing) Grandma, your eyes are leaking!

Grandma: Because he lives in my heart too!

(There’s a silence. The fire crackles.)

Otieno: How did he die?

Grandma: (with a shacky voice) He went to the hospital and never came home

Atieno: (Observing) You knew him?

Otieno: I have always wanted to be a doctor. Maybe  I could have saved our legend.

Grandma: (a bit calm) Knowing him is another thing, I experienced him. (to Otieno) Then be one. And know this—if you do your best, by the book and with your heart, and someone still dies, don’t carry guilt. Just carry love.

(Grandma adjusts her kikoi and wipes tears from her eyes)

Grandma: If you had a garden full of different beautiful flowers, withered flowers, and some with bad scents, which one would you pluck for your lover?
Otieno: I will pluck all the beautiful flowers for someone I love!

Grandma: Then your garden will remain with not-so-pleasing flowers!
Atieno: I think  there will be one outstanding flower from the most beautiful flowers. That’s the one I will pluck.

Grandma: And that’s what God does. He plucks the most beautiful flower.
Atieno: So God picked the brightest flower?
Grandma: Yes. The rarest, gentlest bloom. The kind you want to keep forever.

Atieno: I am so sorry for your loss grandma

Grandma: It wasn’t just mine, many people lost!

(she weeps softly. The children move close and wrap their arms around her. The fire fades to a soft glow)

Otieno : (quietly)WHAT A LEGEND!

Curtains close……

May God grant you eternal rest, Mike
We love you❤💚💙💜🧡

It's funny how, just a few weeks ago, we were discussing the importance of truly living life and being present for those we love.

Many are talking about their memories with you, but I can't help but wonder how tomorrow is going to be without you. Well, tomorrow is now here with us and memories of you still linger, and you are still in our hearts, where you remain forever!

One of the greatest things that I admire about you is that you lived a full life, and this is something I'm going to borrow from you. For that, I say thank you, Mike!

I thank God for allowing me to live in the same lifetime as you.

Blessed regards.