Kenya is mourning the loss of legendary journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela, who passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 9:30 AM, after a short illness.
He was 84 years old.
President William Ruto led the nation in paying tribute to Mbotela, describing him as a “gifted and powerful broadcaster whose alluring voice dominated our airwaves.”
“We are heartbroken by the death of veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela. He was a gifted and powerful broadcaster whose first-class football commentaries and the signature program ‘Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?’ left an indelible mark on Kenya’s media industry.
Mbotela will fondly be remembered for the integral role he played in our radio stations and for mentoring young broadcasters,” President Ruto said in his condolence message.
The veteran broadcaster had been unwell for some time, and his passing was confirmed by his daughter-in-law, Anne Mbotela, who stated, “It is true my father-in-law has passed on.
Mbotela was born in 1940 in Mombasa and joined the then Voice of Kenya (VoK)—now Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC)—in 1964.
Over a career spanning 58 years, he became one of Kenya’s most recognizable voices, particularly for hosting ‘Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?’, a program that ran for over 55 years.
Beyond his contributions to radio and TV, Mbotela is also remembered for his role in the 1982 attempted coup, when he was forced at gunpoint to announce on radio that President Daniel arap Moi’s government had been overthrown.
Mbotela was married to Alice Mwikali, and together they had three children: Aida Mbotela, Jimmy Mbotela, and George Mbotela.
His influence extended beyond his family, as he played a crucial role in mentoring young journalists and shaping Kenya’s media landscape.
Details regarding funeral arrangements will be communicated by the family in due course.
Kenya has lost a broadcasting icon, but his voice, influence, and contributions to journalism will forever remain in the hearts of many.
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