The media fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the untimely deaths of at least five journalists in 2025.
These individuals, known for their dedication to the craft of journalism, left indelible marks on the industry.
Their sudden departures have not only shocked colleagues and audiences alike but have also highlighted the pressures and health challenges faced by media professionals.
Nick Mudimba
Nicholas Mudimba, a respected journalist who lent his talents to several prominent media houses, including CGTN, KTN, Radio Africa Group and Switch TV, passed away on March 23, 2025.
Family sources said Mudimba had been found to have elevated uric acid levels just a day before his death and was placed on medication.
Despite the diagnosis, he seemed cheerful and even watched the Harambee Stars vs Gabon match on March 22 before taking the prescribed drugs.
Sadly, he collapsed at home shortly after, experiencing convulsions.
A post-mortem later revealed that he died due to respiratory distress.
Edward Kwach
The media industry is still in mourning following the death of veteran broadcaster Edward Kwach, who passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the age of 52.
Kwach, best known as the voice behind The Spice Drive on Spice FM, had been undergoing treatment for meningitis at a Nairobi hospital.
His family confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow at the loss of a beloved son and brother.
According to the family, Kwach died following a short illness.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved son and brother, Carey, that occurred last night, 28th April 2025, while receiving treatment for meningitis,” the family’s statement said.
Earlier this month, Kwach was admitted to Coptic Hospital in critical condition.
With a career spanning over two decades, Kwach’s distinctive voice and magnetic presence endeared him to generations of listeners, earning him a revered spot among Kenya’s radio greats.
He was widely respected for his wit, storytelling, and ability to connect with audiences across the country.
Tributes from fans, colleagues, and public figures continue to pour in, celebrating a man whose legacy will live on in Kenya’s broadcasting history.
Fredrick Parsayo
Fredrick Parsayo, a journalist working with the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), was found dead on March 21, 2025, at his home in Kinoo, Kikuyu Constituency.
The circumstances of his death remain under investigation, and few details have been publicly released.
His passing represents a loss for the national broadcaster and the journalistic community.
Silas Apollo
Silas Apollo, a former journalist with the Nation Media Group, tragically died in a road accident on April 9, 2025.
Apollo was hit by a speeding motorcycle at night while attempting to cross the busy Kiambu Road on foot.
He was initially rushed to St. Teresa’s Hospital before being transferred to Kiambu Level 6 Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
This sudden and unforeseen event cut short the life of a journalist who had previously contributed to one of Kenya’s leading news organisations.
The nature of the accident was not extensively detailed in initial reports, but the loss was keenly felt by those who had worked alongside him.
Fofona Bangali
Fofona Bangali, a journalist based in Kisumu, was found dead in his house on March 28, 2025.
His death is currently the subject of a police investigation following concerns raised by his family.
According to reports, Bangali, who worked for Radio Lake Victoria, had not displayed any prior signs of illness, and his house was locked from the inside, requiring police intervention to gain entry.
The family has urged investigative agencies to thoroughly probe the circumstances surrounding his death, as the cause remains undetermined at this time.
The loss of these five journalists in such a short period has cast a pall over the media landscape.
While the specific details surrounding some of their deaths remain private or under investigation, their collective passing serves as a poignant reminder of the unexpected nature of life and the significant contributions these individuals made to informing the public.
The media fraternity and the nation mourn the absence of these voices that were silenced too soon.
Martin Oduor
The alchemist of literary works – a master wordsmith with a proven record of transforming the raw materials of language into a rich tapestry of emotion, thought, and imagination.
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