Veteran Journalist Leonard Mambo Mbotela
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Leonard Mbotela, a veteran broadcaster and a significant figure in Kenya's media landscape, has passed away at the age of 85.
His death is confirmed by his daughter-in-law, Anne Mbotela, who has stated that he died on Friday while receiving treatment at a hospital in the city. Mbotela had been experiencing health challenges for some time prior to his passing. Mbotela is best recognized for founding the radio program “Je, Huu ni Uungwana?” in 1966, which addressed social etiquette and manners, becoming a staple for Kenyan audiences over the years.
The program secured its position as one of the longest-running shows on the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) radio, resonating deeply with listeners and reinforcing Mbotela's status as an icon in broadcasting.
His journey in media began in his youth when he compiled news from various newspaper sources and shared it with his classmates. This early interest propelled him into a trainee position at The Standard newspaper in Nakuru.
In 1964, he transitioned to the Voice of Kenya (VoK), which is currently known as KBC, marking the commencement of a notable career in broadcasting. A pivotal moment in Mbotela's career occurred during the attempted coup in Kenya on August 1, 1982. During this event, soldiers seized control of the VoK studios, compelling Mbotela to announce the purported overthrow of President Daniel Arap Moi's government.
Following the coup's suppression, he was responsible for informing the nation about the government's reinstatement. Mbotela was born in Freetown, Mombasa, and during his lifetime, he witnessed the terms of office for all five presidents of Kenya. He even held a position within the Presidential Press Unit at one stage.
His contributions to the broadcasting domain have been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as the Head of State Commendation (HSC) in 1987 and the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW) in 1992. In 2009, he was honoured by the Kenyan government as a national hero for his substantial influence on the media sector.
In 2024, Mbotela published his memoir, "Je, Huu ni Ungwana?", which outlines his experiences and reflections from his career in the media industry. His legacy is characterized by unwavering dedication, resilience, and a significant impact on Kenyan society.