Renowned veteran journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela has passed away at the age of 85. His daughter-in-law, Anne Mbotela, confirmed his demise on Friday, February 7. Mbotela, who had been unwell, died in the morning while receiving treatment at a city hospital.
Mbotela’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he became a household name through his iconic television and radio show Je, Huu ni Ungwana? on the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). The program, which first aired in 1966, focused on social etiquette and proper manners, cementing his legacy as one of Kenya’s most influential broadcasters.
Born in Freetown, Mombasa, Mbotela was the eldest of eight children in a family that deeply valued education and service. His father, James Mbotela, was a respected teacher, while his mother, Aida Mbotela, was actively involved in Maendeleo ya Wanawake, a women’s empowerment organization. From an early age, Mbotela exhibited a passion for broadcasting, often reading newspaper clippings aloud to classmates.
His professional journey began as a trainee reporter at The Standard in Nakuru before he transitioned to the then Voice of Kenya (VoK), now KBC, in 1964. He quickly gained prominence, not only as a presenter but also as a trusted news anchor.
One of the most defining moments of his career came on August 1, 1982, during the attempted coup against President Daniel arap Moi. Mbotela was forcibly taken by rebel soldiers to the VoK studios and made to announce the overthrow of the government. Once the coup was quelled, he was again tasked with informing the nation of the government’s reinstatement—an event that underscored his credibility and importance in Kenya’s media landscape.
Beyond broadcasting, Mbotela was recognized for his contributions to journalism, receiving several national honors, including the Head of State Commendation (HSC) in 1987, the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW) in 1992, and being named a national hero in 2009. His dedication to public service was further acknowledged in 2022 when he was sworn in as a member of the Kenya National Heroes Council.
Despite his success, Mbotela faced financial difficulties in his later years. In 2020, he was hospitalized at Nairobi South Hospital, where his medical bill accumulated to over Ksh 1 million. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta later settled the bill, an act of kindness Mbotela only discovered through news reports.
Mbotela retired from broadcasting in 2022 after an extraordinary 58-year career. He is survived by his wife, Alice Mwikali, and three children—Jimmy Mbotela, George Mbotela, and Aida Mbotela.
His passing marks the end of an era for Kenya’s media industry, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and unwavering commitment to journalism.
