KBC Journalist Festus Amimo Dies

NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 7 — The Kenyan media industry is grieving the loss of one of its most respected vernacular broadcasters, Festus Amimo, whose death was confirmed on Sunday by the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).

Amimo, fondly known across the lakeside region as Woud Awasi, was the head of KBC’s Dholuo service, Mayienga FM, and the unmistakable voice behind the morning show Gari Mokinyi. His career spanned more than a decade of dedicated service to the national broadcaster, rising from radio producer to one of the most influential figures in Luo-language media.

KBC colleagues described him as a calm but formidable professional whose mastery of dialect broadcasting earned him reverence from listeners and respect from peers.

His last years at the station were marked by a steady leadership style and a magnetic presence on air. He assumed the role of head of Mayienga FM in 2022, steering the station through a period of growth and deepening its connection with audiences across Nyanza.

News of his passing triggered an immediate outpouring of grief, particularly from senior Luo leaders who had crossed paths with the veteran journalist on and off air.

Deputy Head of the Government Delivery Unit Eliud Owalo remembered Amimo as a dedicated professional who served “with passion and commitment.”

“It is with deep sorrow that I have learned of the passing of Festus Amimo, Wuod Awasi. My heartfelt condolences go to his wife, children, his family, colleagues, and the many people whose lives he touched. May they find strength and peace during this difficult time,” Owalo said.

Siaya Governor James Orengo, who appeared frequently on Amimo’s morning interviews, described him as an exceptional broadcaster who embodied grace and depth.

“Deeply saddened by the passing of Festus Amimo of Mayienga Radio. A calm, collected, and truly gifted soul whose loss is a heavy blow to the media fraternity. Your on-air sessions were exceptional, marked by respect and insight. Shine on your path, my good friend, Wuod Awasi,” said Orengo.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi also expressed shock, calling Amimo “a consummate and charismatic media man” and “a dependable ally.”

Beyond his work at KBC, Amimo was a pillar within the Luo media community, serving as chairperson of the Luo Journalists Association — widely known as Jofwambo — where he mentored younger reporters and advocated for broader recognition of vernacular journalism.

Tributes also poured in from Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda, ODM Communications Director Philip Etale and dozens of journalists who credited him with nurturing their craft.

Amimo’s death leaves a profound void in the Kenyan broadcasting landscape, especially among Mayienga FM’s loyal listeners who tuned in each morning for his warmth, trademark wit and sharp interviewing style.

Details about the cause of death and funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.