African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Candidate Raila Odinga has joined other leaders in expressing condolences following the passing of veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela.

In a heartfelt tribute posted on his X account on February 7, 2025, Raila hailed Mbotela as a dedicated public servant who played a crucial role in informing, educating, and entertaining Kenyans throughout his distinguished career in journalism.

He described Mbotela as both a friend and a supporter.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Leonard Mambo Mbotela this morning. Leonard, a veteran journalist and a broadcaster with immense influence in the media industry and the country as a whole, was a dedicated public servant who spent his life informing, educating, and entertaining Kenyans through his informative programs,” Raila wrote.

He praised Mbotela’s unmatched contribution to sports journalism, particularly as a football commentator, and his iconic radio program ‘Jee, Huu Ni Ungwana?‘, which served as a moral guide for many Kenyans.

“His popular educative program Jee, Huu Ni Ungwana? remains etched in the memory of many listeners as a moral compass on social relations. Leonard was not only a broadcaster but a friend and a supporter; my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the media fraternity,” Raila added.

Mbotela’s legacy

Mbotela, who passed away at the age of 85 while receiving treatment at a city hospital, had a remarkable career spanning more than five decades.

He became a household name through his distinct voice, powerful storytelling, and ability to engage audiences.

His career began in the 1960s at the Voice of Kenya (now KBC), where he became one of Kenya’s most recognizable broadcasters.

His program “Jee, Huu Ni Ungwana?” addressed issues of social etiquette and morality, influencing generations of listeners.

Mbotela leaves behind his wife, Alice, and three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George.

Tributes

Following his passing, several national leaders joined Raila in mourning the media icon.

President William Ruto described Mbotela as a gifted and powerful broadcaster who played a key role in shaping Kenya’s media industry.

“Mbotela will fondly be remembered for the integral role he played on our radio stations — through the mentoring of young broadcasters,” Ruto said.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula referred to Mbotela as a historian and mentor whose deep, commanding voice shaped national conversations.

He recalled Mbotela’s bravery in announcing the attempted coup of 1982 live on radio.

“I never imagined a day when Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s voice would fade into silence. For decades, his deep, commanding tone filled our airwaves, shaping conversations, instilling values, and chronicling Kenya’s journey through history. Today, as I reflect on his passing, I feel the weight of this loss not just for the media fraternity but for the entire nation,” Wetangula wrote on his X account on February 7, 2025.

“Mbotela was not just a broadcaster; he was a historian, a mentor, and a custodian of Kenya’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage,” he added.

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in his tribute praised Mbotela as a true patriot who loved Kenya and challenged others to uphold truth and justice.

“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,” Edwin Sifuna wrote on his X account.

“Swahili programs on KBC radio ya Taifa will forever be etched in the memory of Kenyans. As a nation, we have lost a great man, a laudable journalist and a leader in his own right. He has left an indelible mark on the history of our nation. We shall miss him #RIPMbotela,” he added.