Kenya Breaking News Breaking News Now
Renowned Kenyan journalist and radio icon Leonard Mambo Mbotela has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed his passing on Friday, February 7, after a prolonged illness. The veteran broadcaster, celebrated for his decades-long career, breathed his last at approximately 9:30 a.m., leaving behind his wife, Alice Mwikali, and three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George.
Mbotela’s illustrious career spanned nearly six decades, earning him a permanent place in Kenya’s media history. He was best known for hosting Jee Huu ni Ungwana? (Is This Civility?), a groundbreaking radio and TV program that debuted in 1966 on the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). The show, which promoted etiquette and social decorum, captivated audiences for over 55 years, becoming a cultural touchstone for generations of Kenyans.
A Legacy Forged in Storytelling
Mbotela’s journey into broadcasting began in 1964 when he joined the Voice of Kenya (now KBC), despite lacking formal training in journalism. His passion for the craft was ignited by listening to legends like Simon D’Souza and Steven Kumu Joho. He quickly rose through the ranks, mastering live commentary for football matches and national events with his signature charisma.
One of the most dramatic moments of his career came during the failed 1982 coup, when armed soldiers forced him at gunpoint to announce the overthrow of President Daniel Arap Moi’s government. His calm demeanor under pressure and dedication to duty during this crisis became a testament to his professionalism.
The Birth of a Cultural Phenomenon
In a 2022 interview, Mbotela recounted how Jee Huu ni Ungwana? was born from a personal experience. During a lunch break in Nairobi’s CBD in 1966, he witnessed a colleague rudely mistreating waitstaff. Frustrated by the behavior, he channeled his irritation into creating a program that challenged societal norms and encouraged respect—a vision that resonated deeply with listeners for over five decades.
A Multifaceted Career
Beyond his iconic show, Mbotela’s career included roles at the Kenya Weekly News and the East African Standard, where he honed his early journalism skills. From 1984 to 1991, he served in the Presidential Press Unit, working closely with President Moi. Despite retiring from KBC in 2022 after 58 years on air, his influence endured.
In 2023, former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba honored him with the prestigious Hongera Award and a Ksh1 million cash prize, celebrating his unparalleled contributions to Kenyan media.
A Life Beyond the Mic
Mbotela once revealed that if he hadn’t pursued broadcasting, he might have ventured into music—a testament to his creative spirit. Colleagues and fans remember him not only for his professionalism but also for his humility and dedication to mentoring younger journalists.
Tributes Pour In
Human rights advocates and media personalities have hailed Mbotela as a trailblazer who shaped Kenya’s media landscape. His work transcended entertainment, fostering national unity and moral reflection during pivotal moments in the country’s history.
As Kenya bids farewell to this legendary figure, his voice—synonymous with wisdom, warmth, and civility—will forever echo in the hearts of those he inspired.
