He was born in Muguru village, Iyego location, Kangema Division, Murang'a County (then part of Fort Hall District in the Kenya Colony), Michuki came from a large polygamous family as the son of Chief Michuki wa Kagwi. His father passed away in 1940 when he was seven years old.
He suffered the fate of large polygamous families, where sons of older wives tend to disinherit those of younger wives. As such, Michuki’s mother secured only 3 acres from the large Michuki estate.
In many respects, Michuki’s early life was similar to that of many post-colonial African elite who rose to prominence aided by a combination of the social capital and ties of extended family, networks of friends, sheer ingenuity and hard work.
He died on February 21, 2012, at the age of 80, while receiving treatment at the Aga Khan University Hospital's Heart and Cancer Centre in Nairobi.
The cause of death was a heart attack, leading to multiple organ failure. He had recently returned from medical treatment in the United Kingdom on February 16, 2012, after attending the Durban Climate Change Conference in late 2011, and fell ill shortly thereafter, requiring emergency admission to the intensive care unit.
Michuki left a lasting mark on Kenya’s governance, transport sector reforms, environmental conservation, and internal security. His leadership style continues to shape Kenyan public service long after his passing.
Which influential politicians carried Michuki's coffin?
His funeral drew an unprecedented show of unity from the country's top leaders, including the late Raila Odinga, Uhuru Kenyatta, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Musalia Mudavadi.