President William Ruto has sent his message of condolence to the family of veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela.
Mbotela, born in 1940, passed away at a Nairobi hospital where he was receiving treatment, at 9 am on Friday.
In his message on X handle, President Ruto eulogised Mbotela as a gifted and powerful broadcaster whose alluring voice dominated our airwaves with first class football commentaries.
“We are heartbroken by the death of veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela. He was a gifted and powerful broadcaster whose alluring voice dominated our airwaves with his first-class football commentaries and the signature programme “Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?” He mourned.
President Ruto said Mbotela will fondly be remembered for the integral role he played on our radio stations through the mentoring of young broadcasters.
Mbotela, famously known for his iconic show “Je, Huu Ni Uungwana?” on the national broadcaster, was a household name with a career in radio and television that spanned several decades.
His distinctive voice filled the airwaves during live soccer commentaries and major national events, captivating audiences across the country.
He joined Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, then known as Voice of Kenya (VoK), in 1964 and provided commentary on numerous history-defining moments. He also had stints at the Presidential Press Service.
After retirement, he served as a member of the National Heroes Council.
On his part, Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga mourned Leonard Mbotela as a veteran journalist and a broadcaster with immense influence in the media industry and the country as a whole.
He described him as a dedicated public servant who spent his life informing, educating, and entertaining Kenyans through his informative programs.
“As a sports journalist, Mbotela excelled as an outstanding football commentator who made radio football commentary lively to listeners.” Raila mourned adding that “His popular educative program Jee Huu ni Ungwana remains etched on the memory of many listeners as a moral compass on social relations.
Beyond Mbotela’s professional achievements, Raila acknowledged their personal connection, remembering him as a friend and a supporter.
“Leonard was not only a broadcaster but a friend and a supporter; my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the media fraternity,” Raila said.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/kbc-fraternity-mourns-mambo-mbotela/
