Kenyan filmmaker Nick Wambugu, celebrated for documenting police brutality in the BBC documentary Blood Parliament during the 2024 Gen Z protests, has died.
Wambugu, 34, passed away early Wednesday morning, January 7, 2026, after a prolonged battle with Hypocellular Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a rare bone marrow disorder that prevents the body from producing enough healthy blood cells, his family confirmed.
The condition, which often requires intensive medical care and severely weakens the immune system, had left the award-winning videographer critically ill for months.
In the period leading up to his death, Wambugu had appealed publicly for financial support to undergo a bone marrow transplant, a procedure estimated to cost about Sh9 million.
Wambugu was widely respected for his work in narrative and documentary filmmaking, a career that spanned more than a decade and crossed borders. He was particularly known for capturing Kenya’s social justice struggles through film, including his most recent work, The People Shall…, which documented state violence and accountability during the 2024 protests.
The film drew both local and international attention, sparking widespread public debate, official responses, and renewed calls for accountability. It was praised for its depth, bravery, and journalistic integrity, while also placing its creators under intense scrutiny and pressure.
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from fellow filmmakers, journalists, activists, and members of the creative community, many hailing Wambugu as a quiet but determined professional who believed deeply in the power of film to give voice to victims and expose uncomfortable truths.
Close friend Sam Dablew described Wambugu as an inspiration whose influence will be deeply missed.
“You shared your life, talents and friendship with so many of us. You inspired us with your work, your words, your character and your laughter. You remain in our hearts. Rest well, my friend Nick,” he said.
Human rights activist Hanifa Adan also expressed sorrow, praising Wambugu’s courage and commitment to justice.
“Very tragic news. I’m heartbroken. You fought well. History will remember your name,” she wrote.
Colleagues who worked alongside Wambugu recalled his meticulous attention to detail, ethical approach to storytelling, and willingness to take personal risks in pursuit of the truth.
His death is a major loss to Kenya’s creative and human rights communities, where he was seen as part of a rising generation of filmmakers using documentary storytelling as a tool for social change.
Many say his legacy lives on through the impact of his work and the conversations it continues to spark around justice, accountability, and human rights.