A sombre mood engulfed the All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi as family, friends, and Kenyans from all walks of life gathered to bid farewell to veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela.
Dressed in black and white, mourners paid their last respects, showering the legendary journalist with tributes befitting his towering legacy.
Mbotela, famed for his iconic "Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?" show on KBC, passed away on Friday, February 7, at 85, after a short illness. Today, Saturday, February 15, he will rest at Lang’ata Cemetery.
A man of history, Mbotela’s voice remains etched in the nation’s memory, particularly for his chilling announcement during the failed 1982 coup attempt against President Daniel Arap Moi.
Held at gunpoint by Kenya Air Force soldiers, he was forced to declare a military takeover, a moment that would forever link him to a pivotal chapter in Kenya’s past.
Amid grief, those who knew him spoke of a selfless, kind, and dedicated man who used his voice to shape Kenya’s media industry. Below are some of the most emotional moments from his requiem mass.
Leonard Mambo Mbotela's son Jimmy breaks down during his Memorial service at All Saints Cathedral,Nairobi . February 14th,2025 [Elvis Ogina,Standard]
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna (from left) Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Pasaris ,Mbotela's wife Alice view the body during Leonard Mambo Mbotela's Memorial service at All Saints Cathedral,Nairobi . February 14th,2025 [Elvis Ogina,Standard]
Former KBC Presenter Elizabeth Obege (left) and other mourners view the body during Leonard Mambo Mbotela's Memorial service at All Saints Cathedral,Nairobi . February 14th,2025 [Elvis Ogina,Standard]
Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Pasaris (from left) Leonard Mambo Mbotela's daughter Ida , wife Alice son Jimmy during his Memorial service at All Saints Cathedral,Nairobi . February 14th,2025 [Elvis Ogina,Standard]
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