NAIROBI – Kenya’s media fraternity and the nation at large are in mourning following the death of veteran journalist and master of ceremonies Sammy Lui Wang’ondu. He passed away on Thursday at his home in Subukia, Nakuru County, at the age of 78.
Wang’ondu’s career spanned over five decades, making him one of Kenya’s most recognizable and respected voices. He was a pioneering news anchor on both the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and KTN. His deep, authoritative command of Swahili made him the trusted voice for major national events for generations.
Beyond the newsroom, Wang’ondu served as the Director of State Functions, where his eloquence and professionalism saw him preside over ceremonies for four Kenyan presidents: Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and the current president, William Ruto.
In a tribute, President Ruto joined media colleagues in praising Wang’ondu, highlighting his enduring role as the narrator of Kenya’s key historical moments.
The news of his passing has been met with an outpouring of grief, accompanied by questions about his recent well-being. A social media post by user George T. Diano claimed that the veteran journalist’s death came just two months after the Nairobi County Government demolished his house in Woodley Estate, forcing him into a rented home. The post suggested that the eviction “took a toll on him, leading to depression.”
While the official circumstances of his death have not been detailed, the connection between the loss of his home and his declining health has become a significant point of public discussion, adding a layer of tragedy to the passing of a national icon.
Sammy Lui Wang’ondu is remembered not just for his professional legacy, but as the definitive voice of the nation during times of both celebration and solemnity.
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