Taking to his socials, Maina thanked the late for paving the way for many other journalists.
“Lost for words!!! He was a mentor, a pioneer, a leader… a master story-teller, a legend… I always loved listening to him and his spectacular advice. He opened the way for many on radio and on TV both locally and globally. And his infectious laughter…. waaaaah!!!!!!
Actually, this story right here in this video was one of his favourite stories within his recent past… and yes, there were so so many stories he loved to give!!!
Ghost Mulee and GIDI GIDI, do you remember this hilarious interview you did on radio with him? Yaani hii story ya Mburukenge had to be your first question on your interview??!!!! …mimi personally, ningemwuliza, “Je, huu ni uungwana?”
Rest In Peace Leonard Mambo Mbotela. Thank you for everything!!!!!!! #RIP #RIPMamboMbotela“
Below are condolence messages from politicians, fellow journalists:
Beatrice Elachi CBS: Mambo Mbotela’s contributions to the media industry were unparalleled and deeply impactful.
e exemplified patriotism and a profound love for Kenya, consistently urging his fellow citizens to uphold the principles of truth and justice.
I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Edwin W. Sifuna : I was privileged to meet Mambo Mbotela, the legend himself. A foremost patriot who truly loved Kenya, he challenged me to remain steadfast on the side of truth and justice. I extend my condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
Hassan Omar Hassan (Former Mombasa Senator) :Kenya has lost a true media legend. Leonard Mambo Mbotela was more than just a broadcaster; he was the voice of generations, a storyteller who shaped our nation’s history through his iconic show Je, Huu ni Uungwana? and decades of dedicated service in journalism.
Bonnie Musambi: I am extremely saddened to learn the demise of our greatest broadcasting mentor and legend, Mzee Leonard Mambo Mbotela!
“Majayz” as we used to call him, rested this morning at the age of 85.
In the photo below, we met again mid-last year and had a pleasant catch up session.
Mambo was among those who welcomed me at KBC in 2007 and said to me, “You can do it!” His popular programme, “Je huu ni ungwana,” used to air in my “Zinga” show on Radio Taifa at 9.45 am daily. We loved each other.
Mzee, you’ve left an indelible mark in the history of Kenyan Media and mine as well.
Rest peacefully until we meet again.
Churchill Ndumbuki: A Legend Has Rested 🕊️💔
As we bid farewell to a legend, we do so with gratitude. Thank you, Mambo Mbotela, for paving the way, for teaching us that words have power, and for proving that a voice when used with purpose can change the world.
Rest in peace, legend. Your voice may be silent now, but your impact will echo forever 🙏🏾
Dr. Raymond Omollo : We join the nation in mourning Leonard Mambo Mbotela, a broadcasting icon whose voice shaped Kenya’s radio history.
From his legendary show, “Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?” to his electrifying football commentaries in the 80s, he entertained, educated and championed integrity, with his storytelling legacy inspiring generations of journalists.
Though his voice has fallen silent, his teachings whisper on.
Fare thee well, Mzee Mbotela.
by PENINAH NJOKI
