Kenya has been left heartbroken by the death of renowned broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela, whose powerful voice and influence shaped the nation’s media landscape for decades. Mbotela, who passed away at a Nairobi hospital, was celebrated for his remarkable contributions to journalism and broadcasting.
President Ruto’s tribute
President William Ruto expressed deep sorrow over Mbotela’s passing, praising his role as a gifted broadcaster. “His alluring voice dominated our airwaves, and his program ‘Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?’ taught valuable societal lessons. Mbotela mentored many young broadcasters, leaving an indelible mark on the media industry,” said the President.
Former President Kenyatta’s reflection
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta mourned the loss of Mbotela as a legendary figure, whose professionalism and patriotism resonated throughout his career. “Mambo Mbotela was a patriot who calmly guided Kenyans through times of political uncertainty, instilling hope with his ever-smiling and reassuring voice,” he remarked, highlighting the broadcaster’s lasting impact on Kenya’s media and society.
Speaker Wetangula’s tribute
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula expressed his disbelief at the loss of Mbotela, describing him as a giant in the industry. “His voice shaped conversations and provided moral guidance to the nation, especially through his iconic program. He leaves behind a legacy of dignity and decency,” Wetangula said.
Raila Odinga’s condolences
Opposition leader Raila Odinga described Mbotela as a dedicated public servant, whose educational and entertaining programs enriched the lives of many Kenyans. “His football commentary brought the game to life, and ‘Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?’ provided much-needed moral lessons. He was not just a broadcaster, but a friend and a mentor,” said Odinga.
Nandemu Barasa’s Reflection
Journalist Nandemu Barasa fondly remembered Mbotela as a mentor who set the gold standard for journalism. “Mbotela’s storytelling and passion for truth have left a lasting impact on generations of journalists. His legacy will continue through the lives he touched,” Barasa stated.
As the nation mourns, Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s contributions to Kenya’s media landscape will forever be cherished. His voice may have faded, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of many.
George Natembeya, Governor of Trans Nzoia
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Leonard Mambo Mbotela this morning. Leonard, a veteran journalist and broadcaster, was a giant in the media industry and a valuable public servant who informed, educated, and entertained Kenyans throughout his life. As a passionate sports journalist, he brought football commentary to life for listeners, making it an unforgettable experience. His program Jee Huu ni Ungwana remains a beacon of moral guidance for many. Leonard was not just a broadcaster, but a friend and supporter to many. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire media fraternity. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Kalonzo Musyoka, Wiper Party Leader
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Leonard Mambo Mbotela this morning. A seasoned journalist and broadcaster, Leonard was a trailblazer in the media industry and a dedicated public servant. His insightful and engaging radio football commentary kept listeners hooked, and his program Jee Huu ni Ungwana continues to shape social relations with its valuable lessons. Leonard was more than a broadcaster; he was a friend and mentor to many. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the media industry. May Mzee Leonard Mbotela rest in eternal peace.”
Leonard Mambo Mbotela, a distinguished Kenyan broadcaster, was a distinguished Kenyan journalist whose career spanned over six decades. Born in Mombasa, he was the first of eight children to James and Aida Mbotela. His father was an educator, and his mother was involved with “Maendeleo ya Wanawake.” Mbotela traced his roots to Malawi, with his great-grandfather having been freed from slavery by the British Navy near Mombasa.
Mbotela’s passion for broadcasting began in his youth. After completing his secondary education at Kitui High School in 1962, he briefly worked with Kenya Weekly News and the East African Standard. In 1964, he joined the Voice of Kenya (now Kenya Broadcasting Corporation), where he became renowned for his program “Je, Huu ni Ungwana?” This show, which humorously addressed social etiquette, began airing in 1966 and continued for 55 years, making it one of the longest-running programs in Kenyan broadcasting.
In 1982, during an attempted coup, Mbotela was forced to announce on live television that the country was under military control and that the president had been overthrown. The situation was later brought under control, and Mbotela announced that the rebels had been defeated.
Mbotela retired in 2022, concluding a remarkable 58-year career in broadcasting. He was married to Alice Mwikali, and together they had three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George Mbotela.
He authored the memoir Je, Huu ni Uungwana? Born in 1940 in Mombasa, Mbotela’s passion for broadcasting began in his youth, leading him to a career that spanned over five decades. He is best known for his signature program, “Je, Huu ni Uungwana?”, which premiered in 1966 and continues to air on KBC radio, making it the longest-running show in Kenya’s broadcasting history.
In his memoir, Mbotela offers an intimate look into his life and career, sharing experiences from his early days in Mombasa to his tenure at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). The book delves into his personal journey, the evolution of Kenyan broadcasting, and his role in shaping the media landscape.
Tragically, Leonard Mambo Mbotela passed away on February 7, 2025, in Nairobi. His contributions to journalism and broadcasting have left an indelible mark on Kenya’s media industry.
