The mother of controversial preacher, Prophet Victor Kanyari,Lucy Nduta has paid an emotional tribute to her late daughter Starlet Wahu, revealing that she invested an estimated KSh26 million in her education over the years.
Speaking during a church service attended by congregants and family members, the elderly preacher reflected on Wahu’s life, describing her as an intelligent and ambitious woman whose education was a priority from an early age.
In a video captured during a service at Kanyari’s church, Prophetess Nduta claimed that she had invested a staggering KSh 26 million into Wahu’s education.
“I educated the girl. I used KSh 26 million to educate her, and she died. I gave myself strength again. I stood up and told God to raise me again. Even if this one has gone, I still have others. I also have this one (points at a sitting Kanyari) who is taking care of me. I told God not to allow me to die and that He should give me strength. And he did. And I rose again,” she said.
Remembering Starlet Wahu
Starlet Wahu, whose full name was Starlet Wahu Njeri, was the younger sister of Pastor Kanyari. She died in January 2024 after an incident at a short-stay apartment in Nairobi.
The mother of controversial preacher Prophet Victor Kanyari,Lucy Nduta with emotional tribute to her late daughter Starlet Wahu // Facebook[Screengrab]
Her death attracted national attention and led to a police investigation that culminated in the arrest and prosecution of businessman John Matara, who denied the charges against him. The criminal case has continued through the Kenyan courts.
Since Wahu’s death, members of her family have occasionally spoken publicly about the emotional impact of losing her and the void she left behind.
A mother’s sacrifice
During the church service, Kanyari’s mother used her daughter’s story to encourage parents to invest in their children’s future while also reminding congregants that wealth and education cannot guarantee life’s outcomes.
She recounted years of paying school fees and supporting Wahu’s academic journey, saying she believed education would provide her daughter with opportunities to succeed.
“Parents make sacrifices every day for their children. We pray they live long enough to enjoy the fruits of those sacrifices,” she told the congregation.
Kenyans react online
The church service clip quickly circulated across social media, drawing mixed reactions from viewers.
Mary Wanjiku wrote:
“May her soul continue resting in peace. No parent should have to bury a child.”
Kevin Ochieng commented:”The amount isn’t what matters. Losing a child after making such sacrifices must be heartbreaking.”
Faith Chepkemoi said:”Education is an investment, but life is unpredictable. May God comfort the family.”
James Mwangi added:”Her mother spoke from a place of pain. You could feel every word.”
Lilian Akinyi wrote:”Parents give everything they have for their children. This was an emotional testimony.”
