Nairobi entrepreneur Monica Waithera Chege, popularly known as Wakalucy, has died aged 46 after a long battle with cancer.
Her death was confirmed by numerous celebrities and public figures on social media, with comedian Mbote Njogu among the earliest to share the news.
“I never met her, but we had conversations through the phone. I have just received the sad news through social media. Your legacy will live forever. Your fish can’t be compared to anyone else’s. RIP,” Mbote wrote on Facebook.
Chege was the founder of Wakalucy Fish Palace, a restaurant brand that grew from a small fish-selling venture into a popular dining and entertainment business with outlets in parts of Nairobi and its outskirts.
The business became particularly known along the Thika Road and Eastern Bypass corridors, attracting customers looking for fish dishes and a place to socialise.
At different points, Wakalucy Fish Palace had outlets in areas including Kasarani, Kamakis, Mirema and along Kiambu Road, with other branches associated with the wider brand in Ruiru and Juja.
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Some of the outlets also operated under names including Wakalucy SNL and Wakalucy Burudani.
Chege was a single mother of three children, two daughters and a son. Her children were involved in the family business and worked alongside their mother at the restaurants.
News of her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from customers, friends, influencers and content creators who remembered her for her work ethic, generosity and contribution to Nairobi’s food and entertainment scene.
Among those who paid tribute were content creators Kennie Balo, Nyto Mwangi, and Terence Creative, who shared messages and photographs celebrating Chege’s life and work.
Several customers also recalled the large crowds that frequented her establishments, which became meeting points for fish lovers and residents in the areas where the outlets operated.
Chege’s journey with Wakalucy Fish Palace turned her name into a recognisable brand among Nairobi’s dining and entertainment circles.