A family photo showing Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale with his late wife Gloria Sekeiyan Khalwale and their eight children has resurfaced following Gloria's sudden death.
The photograph, taken on October 13, 2025, captured the family celebrating their son Engine Kukaste Khalwale's graduation from Kirinyaga University.
Khalwale shared the picture at the time to celebrate his son's achievement, describing the moment as a happy family occasion.
“Engine Kukaste Khalwale finally came home after graduating from Kirinyaga University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. The family is happy. Congratulations, son.”
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The image has since taken on a different meaning following Gloria's death on August 15, 2026.
Gloria Left Behind Eight Children
Gloria died suddenly at the family's home in Malinya, Kakamega County, after what Khalwale described as a heart attack.
Gloria was the mother of eight of Khalwale's children: Engine Kukaste, Olivia Sabayi, Flavia Shimuli, Gift Atubukha, Meliza Khamwenyi, Velma Nasiebanda, Sonia Inuni and Maura Makatse Khalwale.
The children appeared together with their parents in the resurfaced photograph, offering a glimpse of the family before Gloria's unexpected death.
A Mother Remembered
Khalwale had previously said Gloria was his third wife and the mother of eight of his 17 children. His other children were born to his other wives.
Her death has prompted messages of condolence from political leaders and members of the public.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also sent a message of sympathy in response to the news.
Family Photo Gains New Meaning
The October 2025 photograph was originally a celebration of Engine's graduation.
Almost 10 months later, it has become a reminder of the family moments Gloria shared with her children and husband.
Gloria's death came nearly seven years after Khalwale lost his first wife, Adelaide Shikanga Khalwale, who died in October 2019.
