World Radio Day: List of Kenya’s radio legends who passed away
February 13 marks World Radio Day, an awareness day designated by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 2011 and later adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 as an international day.
The date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the United Nations Radio which was established on February 13, 1946.
The day which is observed annually honours the profound impact of radio in shaping societies, a powerful medium for information, education, and entertainment as well as promotes free and diverse broadcasting.
On this World Radio Day, as we celebrate the medium’s enduring power, let us also pay tribute by remembering the contributions made by Kenya’s radio presenters who have passed away over the years leaving lasting legacies through their voices, stories, and dedication.
Here are some of the notable figures who have passed away leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s airwaves.
1. Leonard Mambo Mbotela
Leonard Mambo Mbotela for at least five decades has been the voice that guided Kenyans through moments of victory and tragedy.
The broadcaster legendary passed away on Friday morning, February 7, 2025, at the age of 85 while receiving treatment at a city hospital.
Mbotela left an indelible mark on radio and television broadcasting with his long-running show, ‘Je Huu Ni Ungwana?’
2. Jahmby Koikai
Mary Njambi Koikai popularly known to her fans as Fyah Mummah Jahmby, was a reggae presenter, emcee and an advocate for endometriosis awareness.
She hosted reggae shows on Metro FM and was instrumental in promoting reggae culture in Kenya.
Jahmby passed away on June 4, 2024, after a long battle with endometriosis.
3. Mercy Mawia
Mercy Mawia affectionately known to her fans as Kamuwetangi passed away on July 23, 2024, while undergoing treatment in Nairobi.
The drive show presenter at Mbaitu FM was celebrated for her engaging shows.
4. Fatma Rajab
The coastal-based presenter and reporter passed away on January 6, 2024, while in the Intensive Care Unit at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Rajab, a renowned Mombasa-based Mo Radio presenter was battling a heart disease.
She was mourned by several journalists and leaders, including Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff.
5. Sean Cardovillis
Sean Cardovillis‘s sudden death was a significant loss to the sports journalism community. The Capital FM presenter passed on September 9, 2023.
Cardovillis was renowned for his enthusiastic coverage of various sporting events on both radio and television.
During his career as a dynamic sports presenter, Cardovillis worked with Nation Media Group (NTV) and Standard Group (KTN News).
6. Mohammed Juma Njuguna
Mohammed Juma Njuguna was widely known by sports fanatics for his passionate and captivating football commentary on KBC Radio.
The legendary Kenyan sports commentator passed away on June 1, 2018, after battling a long illness.
7. Waweru Mburu
Waweru Mburu, a renowned Radio Citizen presenter passed away on September 28, 2016, after battling gastric cancer.
Mburu was famed for his program dubbed ‘Yaliyotendeka,’ where he provided in-depth analysis of political, social, and economic issues in the country.
8. Ruhila Adatia-Sood
Ruhila worked as a radio presenter on Radio Africa Group’s East FM and hosted entertainment news on Kiss TV, Kiss 100, X-FM and E-News.
Her life was tragically cut short on Saturday, September 13, 2013, during the Westgate shopping mall attack in Nairobi.
Reflecting on their legacy
These individuals not only entertained but also informed and educated Kenyans. Their dedication, unique perspectives and voices have inspired various generations of broadcasters.
Even though they are no longer here with us, their contributions continue to resonate, reminding us of the vital role radio plays in our daily lives and the profound impact of those behind the microphone.
