Lugari’s Panpaper community is mourning the death of Wangila Peter Waswa Wakhisi, a long-serving local leader and founder of Panpaper Market, who passed away at the age of 65.
Wakhisi died on the evening of April 3, 2026, at Life Care Hospital in Eldoret, where he had been receiving treatment. His son, Kennedy Meya, said the late leader’s condition had worsened the previous night before he succumbed while in the Intensive Care Unit.
Family members revealed that Wakhisi had been battling a pituitary macroadenoma, a type of brain tumor. Although he underwent surgery, he later developed complications that required intensive medical care.
Wakhisi was widely regarded as a dedicated and humble leader who played a key role in the development of Panpaper Market and served the community as its mayor for many years. Residents remember him for his commitment to improving livelihoods and fostering unity in Panpaper and the wider Lugari area.
He is survived by his family, including his son Dr. Ken Meya of Apex Family Hospital in Panpaper.
Funeral arrangements are underway, with a harambee scheduled for today, Sunday.
The body is expected to arrive at his Marula home in Lugari Ward on Monday, April 13, ahead of the funeral service and burial set for Tuesday, April 14.
Family, friends, and residents are preparing to accord the late Wakhisi a dignified send-off as tributes continue to pour in celebrating his life and legacy.