Kenya is mourning the shock loss of veteran broadcaster Festus Amimo, the respected head of KBC’s Luo-language station Radio Mayienga FM, after he was found unresponsive in a Nairobi hotel room on Sunday morning.
According to an official police report from Nairobi Central Police Station, Amimo—who had booked Room 604 at the After 40 Hotel—collapsed under unclear circumstances shortly after 2am. Efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful and the police were summoned.
Leaders, Colleagues Mourn Festus Amimo — the Mentor Who Built Mayienga FM Voices
Tributes continue to pour in for Festus Amimo, the respected head of KBC’s Mayienga Radio and chair of the Luo Journalists Association, whose sudden death in Nairobi has shocked the media fraternity. Amimo, celebrated for his calm brilliance and cultural stewardship, collapsed and died on December 7, with an autopsy pending.
While national leaders praised his integrity and warmth, it was colleagues who painted the clearest picture of his legacy: a visionary who used his talent to lift others. Inside Mayienga FM, many of today’s leading presenters rose through ranks because Amimo personally coached, corrected and encouraged them. From interns struggling with their first scripts to young broadcasters finding their voice, Amimo was the patient mentor who stayed behind long after sign-off to sharpen their delivery and build their confidence.
Interior PS Raymond Omollo remembered him as a steady, kind-hearted friend whose leadership “shaped countless voices.” Siaya Governor James Orengo hailed his grace and depth on air, while Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda described him as a brother whose humility bound people together. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir praised his ability to speak truth with empathy, calling him a rare voice of reason.
Even in his final days at Mayienga FM, colleagues say Amimo remained focused on nurturing the next generation — insisting that Dholuo broadcasting must continue producing polished, responsible storytellers.
As condolences continue, one shared message echoes across newsrooms: Festus Amimo didn’t just lead Mayienga FM — he built the people who will carry its future.
Leaders from Nyanza, senior journalists, former workmates, and thousands of fans filled social media platforms with tributes celebrating a man many credited with amplifying Luo culture, empowering young broadcasters, and uplifting community radio to new heights.
Before his untimely death, Festus Amimo had built a remarkable career. Starting off as a young radio producer, he gradually rose through the ranks with unmatched dedication, eventually becoming the Head of Radio Mayienga FM, the Luo vernacular arm of the national broadcaster.
Listeners across Kenya and the diaspora fondly knew him for his calm demeanor, rich voice, and deep connection to the community he served. Under his stewardship, Mayienga FM became one of the most influential vernacular radio stations in the country.
Police have classified the matter as “Pending Under Investigation (PUI)” as they await autopsy results to determine the cause of death. Detectives from the DCI Central Office are handling the case.
For now, Kenya is left with memories of a media icon whose final hours were quiet—and whose legacy will echo across the airwaves for generations.
Rest in Peace, Festus Amimo.
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