That memorable quote from football legend Lionel Messi suggests that we often admire success without comprehending the years of hardship, sacrifice, and unseen struggle that paved the way.

This lesson fits perfectly with the life and journey of Gathaiya Dennis. Widely recognized as one-half of the beloved Kameme FM duo, Gathaiya co-hosts the wildly popular afternoon show “Kwigangara” alongside comedian Ngoni wa Thuita.

He also commands the airwaves on Sunday nights with his country music show, dubbed ‘Kameme Country’. But what is the story behind Gathaiya’s household name and the easy on-air chemistry?

This is his journey as told by WOK:

Humble Beginnings

Dennis Gathaiya was born in the verdant tea-growing region of Mioro in Mathioya, Murang’a County.

A lastborn of three, both his parents worked as teachers. His father taught at Muthangari Primary School while his mother was a teacher at Mioro Primary School.

With his parents working as civil servants, Gathaiya’s childhood was relatively stable.

That was until he was ten years old and in class 5, when his father passed away, leaving his mother to shoulder the family’s responsibilities alone.

In class 7, he was transferred to St Benedict Boys’ Primary School in Neri. “It was there that I encountered my first culture shock after tasting boarding school life. I met students from every part of Kenya. The official languages were Kiswahili and English. For the first year, it was hard for me to adapt to the life,” he said in an interview.

After passing his KCPE, he was admitted to Karima Boys’ High School, still in Nyeri. However, life was a bit hard financially because his elder siblings were still in high school. “I remember going home a few times for school fees, but my mother did her best to ensure I stayed in school,” he said.

A Dream Takes Root

It was during his time at Karima High School that Gathaiya developed the passion to be a vernacular radio broadcaster. “I used to listen to presenters like Penina Muthoni Mbugua (PM squared), Njoki Ndegwa, Anderson Waweru, and I wanted to be like them one day,” said Gathaiya.

He was also a great reader of magazines, a trait he inherited from his father. “My father’s favorite magazine was called Mwihoko, a Kikuyu newspaper that was published by the Diocese of Murang’a. I would wait for him to finish reading, and then I would take it and read after him. I especially used to enjoy stories by Wahome Mutahi,” he said.

These traits, coupled with his prowess in language subjects, led him to be chosen as the school’s youngest student to ever chair the journalism club.

After high school, Gathaiya enrolled at Smart Media College in Nairobi. The school is located next to the Khoja stage.

From day one, his focus was singular. “All my peers wanted to be put in Kiswahili and English radio stations, but my path was different,” he stated. He was determined to master the art of vernacular broadcasting.

His attachment at Bahasha FM, which later became Countryside FM, gave him his first taste of the industry, allowing him to rub shoulders with veterans like George Waweru and a young Larry Madowo.

After the attachment, Gathaiya got his first job as a lecturer to teach radio production and journalism at a startup college that was located in South B.

“The institution had only one journalism student. It was there that I got my first end-of-the-month salary of sh 5,000. They used to pay me in cash. With such an amount, there was no need for bank deposits,” he said.

A subsequent lecturing job offered a higher salary of Sh12,000, but came with its soul-crushing challenge. “Throughout my time at that institution, I never once got the Sh12,000 salary in full,” he explained. “I used to be paid in small random amounts of like Sh2,000.”

When the frustrated staff finally protested, they were all unceremoniously fired. Jobless and unable to afford rent, he gave up and relocated back to his village in Murang’a.

A job at Kameme FM

After three months in the village, with his dream seemingly dead, Gathaiya’s mother intervened. She encouraged him to try again, reminding him that opportunity lay in the city, not in the village.

With her support, he moved back to Nairobi, renting a house in Githurai to start over.

It was then that he heard an advertisement that would change his life: Kameme FM was hiring.

He hand-delivered his application to their offices at Union Towers. After a series of interviews, his talent and passion paid off.

In 2012, he was hired and assigned to the “Kwigangara” show, the same show he hosts to this day.

Walking into the Kameme FM studios was a full-circle moment. “I was surprised to find that some of my former colleagues at Bahasha FM were also presenters here,” he said.

Although he has had various co-host combinations throughout the years, the one he seems to have clicked with the most is his current Co-Host, veteran comedian Ngoni Wa Thuita.

Some of the awards include being recognized as Influencer of the Year in 2024 at the TUKO Awards. He has also been recognized internationally, including in countries like London, Nigeria, and South Africa.

Kennar’s success reminds one of Jane Austen’s memorable opening line in her famous novel Pride and Prejudice, where she says that “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”

For years, the woman beside Kennedy Othiambo has remained a quiet, steady presence away from the full glare of the limelight. It wasn’t until recently that Kenyans learnt that her name is Natalie Asewe.

But who exactly is she?

Business Acumen

On her LinkedIn Profile, Asewe describes herself as a ‘Social media manager’ and ‘full-stack creator’. A full-stack creator is someone who makes content, builds a brand around it, and sells products or services directly to their audience.

She attended Africa International University, where she joined in 2017 and graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Banking and Finance.

Aside from social media management, Natalie is also an entrepreneur who runs a fashion business as a wardrobe stylist. She also served as manager for Kennar’s restaurant called Instant Delicacies, which was based in Juja but closed down in 2023.

According to online sources, Kennar and Natalie have been in a long-term relationship, having known each other since primary school.

In 2022, they shared photos as they were coming from a church service, and in 2023, they made headlines after attending a friend’s engagement party in striking, matching red outfits.

Natalie has also featured in some of Kennar’s skits as his co-actor. On Instagram, she is quite the celebrity, with 65.5k followers.

Losing a son

In late 2023, the couple’s world was shattered by an unimaginable tragedy. They lost their newborn son just five days after his birth. The baby had spent his short life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Kennar bravely shared the heartbreaking news with the public during his Happy Country show at the KICC, revealing that his son had passed away just four days before he was due on stage.

While Kennar grieved publicly on stage, Natalie navigated her sorrow through a series of deeply emotional social media posts.

On Instagram, she wrote a heartfelt tribute, saying that “They say there’s no greater pain than childbirth, but I disagree. The greatest pain in the world is carrying and delivering a child that you never get to raise.”

In another heart-wrenching post accompanied by photos of her baby bump, she mourned the future she had lost. “I don’t just grieve my son, I mourn never getting the chance to hear him cry, to hear him speak, teach him to walk, and see him grow.”

A new chapter of hope

On August 3, 2025, Crazy Kennar and Natalie welcomed their second-born child, a daughter.

The news was well received by their fans, with the couple receiving numerous congratulatory messages from Kenyans and celebrities such as Njugush, Abel Mutua, Philip Karanja, among others.

As an artist, he can find inspiration everywhere – in people’s stories, films, and music. He believes you just need to “stop and smell the roses” to find it. This approach has shaped his art, making it not just visually appealing, but also full of emotion, bold storytelling, and a strong sense of his own identity and Kenyan spirit.

Let’s delve deeper into the mind of this creative force.

Hi Ed, what do you do?

Hi, I’m an illustrator, muralist and animator based in Nairobi, Kenya.

What inspires you daily?

Oh, would it be corny if I said everything? I’m inspired by my personal journey. Other people’s stories (Any background), Film, music. The list can go on and on. Inspiration is everywhere. I say, “you just got stop and smell the roses “

Looking back at your artistic journey, what’s the most significant shift you’ve observed in your style or perspective?

Looking back, the biggest shift has been learning to trust my voice. I started off trying to “get it right,” but over time, I have embraced boldness, emotion, and storytelling as my signature. Now, my style is not just about how it looks, it’s about how it feels. There’s more soul, more Kenya, more me in every piece.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about the power of visual communication?

Storytelling. Even if it’s just a moment. I’m able to share a minute with the viewer. They’re able to understand life and experience, life situation through my lens.

Also allowing the viewer to block away the world for a moment and enjoy my art with me.

When faced with creative block, what’s your go-to strategy for reigniting your inspiration?

Easy. Travel, travel, travel. Watching documentaries. Being around other artists and enjoying their craft. Gallery visits

What’s the most surprising or unexpected thing you’ve learned about yourself through your art?

I don’t know if it’s magic. I can learn a new style of art in just days. And that’s why I’m always like a crazy scientist. Experimenting. This tends to keep the journey fun cause it’s not about the destination.

How has working on projects for established brands shaped your understanding of the relationship between art and commerce?

It has shown me that art is not just for galleries, with the digital era, it can hustle too! It has taught me how creativity and strategy can blend, turning my ideas into visuals that not only look good but sell. Art meets commerce when storytelling meets purpose, and I have loved finding that sweet spot.

As a Kenyan designer, what does it mean to you to have your work featured on such an iconic Kenyan brand like Kenya Cane?

It means the world! As a Kenyan designer, having my work featured on a legendary brand like Kenya Cane feels like being woven into the fabric of our culture. It is pure joy, knowing my art gets to live on a bottle that’s been part of celebrations, stories, and memories across generations. I’m not just creating, I’m becoming part of a legacy, and that’s magic!

What inspired the visuals behind the logo? 

The Kenyan culture was my compass, especially the magic that happens when the old and new generations meet. I was inspired by elements that both generations instantly get, those nostalgic, proudly Kenyan visuals that still feel fresh and bold today. You know that perfect balance between “aii, I remember that!” and “yo, that is fire!”

And in true Ed style, I had a whole stash of designs (yes, many) that I was excited to share with the team. It was such a pleasure showing the range, how I can remix culture, style, and story into visuals that feel rooted and new.

What is your favourite element on the pack and why?

That’s like choosing a favourite kid haha. I can say the matatu culture. It’s a moving canvas. Do I need to say more?

Which of the Kenyan elements was the most challenging to incorporate, and why?

The animal was definitely the hardest! Kenya has so many iconic animals, again it was like choosing a favorite child. But I finally settled on the flamingoes of Lake Nakuru. They’re not only striking and elegant, but they also carry that unmistakable Kenyan charm. Plus, their vibrant color and movement brought the design to life in such a unique way!

As an artist, what message do you hope the overall design conveys about the Kenyan culture?

I hope the design proudly shouts: “This is Kenya bold, vibrant, and full of soul!” I wanted it to celebrate our culture as something alive and evolving where tradition meets creativity, and where every pattern, color, and symbol tells a story. It is a love letter to Kenya’s spirit: joyful, resilient, and always expressive.

What do you hope people will always remember about your work?

That Ed is a crazy vibrant artist always on the go. I hope people always remember the feeling, that spark of joy, pride, and connection. I want my work to leave a mark that says, “This is us. This is Kenya.” Bold, unapologetic, full of rhythm and story. If it makes someone smile, reflect, or feel seen… then I have done my job.

24-year-old Vivian Kabono, a creative beads designer known as Vivy Kabz, echoes this sentiment, saying beadwork is a deep connection to cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs. In many communities, beads signify important aspects of life, such as marital status. “When you look at different communities,” Vivian notes, “there is an aspect of a married woman and the type of beads that they are supposed to wear.”

Nathan Letoluo, a member of the Maasai community, shares this perspective, highlighting that beadwork is not just fashion but a reflection of his identity. “Wearing them makes me feel proud, powerful, and grounded. In Maasai culture, every colour and design has meaning—red for bravery, blue for energy, white for purity. When I wear beads, I carry those meanings with me. It is also a symbol of heritage and continuity; many of us learn beadwork from our mothers and grandmothers, so there is a beautiful generational bond. It is not just an accessory; it is a language of identity, emotion, and respect,” Nathan, a Genz says.

Vivian sees beadwork as a potent symbol of local and global identity, embodied in her slogan “carry nyumbani with you.” She believes Kenyans in diaspora can also travel with locally designed beads to promote their culture, as international celebrities have been captured wearing beads patterned with Kenyan flags over the years.

Nathan adds that beads can be used to promote Kenyan culture globally through fashion and art and tell stories about the Maasai, Samburu, and Turkana who adore them. “This can open up conversations about our values, history, and the beauty of our traditions, helping the world see Kenya through our eyes,” he says. Yaba reinforces this idea, stating, “By staying true to our heritage, we’re creating music that stands out globally because it carries depth, identity, and authenticity. It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about preserving history and passing it on through sound.”

Maureen Mwangi, a Gen Z professional in PR, adds that beads, beyond being an expression of her personal style, create a sense of connection and shared identity, evoking a feeling of home for Kenyans abroad.

She remembers spending her childhood making beadwork, adding, “It is something that I have grown knowing that it is part of my beauty, it is part of my personal expression.”

Beads also hold deep spiritual meaning, with some viewed as protection against negative powers. The “protective eye” pattern is famed for ‘shielding one’ against an evil eye. Beyond these traditional uses, Gen Zs are finding new, personalized ways to express affection and connection through beads.

A recent report by Dazed highlights this trend, noting that Gen Zs are hand-picking beads that match the colour of their loved ones’ eyes, stringing them into bracelets and waist beads – a hyper-personalized emblem of love. This trend, popularized on TikTok, represents extreme intimacy and DIY creativity. For example, the “matching-eyes” bracelet trend often features a mix of seed beads in varying shades of brown, green, or blue to mimic the intricate patterns of the recipient’s iris. Dazed notes the eye colour bracelet trend from TikTok has 104.4 million related posts.

Capitalizing on this cultural trend, brands are also incorporating beadwork into modern designs to promote local culture and connect with their consumers. Wainaina notes that the KC label was a way to create something that speaks to both the old and the new.

Kenya Cane’s latest offering, the Lemon & Ginger flavour, taps into this cultural statement, promoting the Kenyan spirit as a Made in Kenya drink with Maasai beads, Matatu art, Nairobi skyline, and Kenyan Sports excellence featured on its artwork. As a local brand made in Kenya by Kenyans for Kenyans, Kenya Cane also actively supports local DJs, MCs, and artists at its events, providing them with opportunities to earn a living while celebrating Kenyan culture and heritage.

Edwin Wainaina, the logo designer behind Kenya Cane’s vibrant new label, shares this sentiment: “The KC label was such a fun project for me—it all started with a deep love for the things that make Kenyan culture so bold and beautiful.”

Wainaina’s design, which incorporates Maasai beads, Matatu art, and other iconic Kenyan symbols, aims to create “something that speaks to both the old and the new—a visual bridge between generations.”

This connection to heritage resonates with Yaba, a musician famed as the Prince of Rhumbacane, who notes, “Culture is the foundation of everything we do. As cultural musicians, we draw deeply from our roots—language, sounds, rhythms, and traditional instruments—to create something that’s not just music, but a reflection of who we are. I’ve been telling stories and keeping the culture of music alive from the beloved classics (“Zilizopendwa”), to Rhumba (“Rhumbacane”), and now contemporary hits (“Zitakazopendwa”). It’s a journey that connects generations, evolving with time but still rooted in tradition. I’ve connected millennials and Gen Z with this music.”

Yaba adds that by staying true to her heritage, she creates music that stands out globally because it carries depth, identity, and authenticity. “It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about preserving history and passing it on through sound,” she emphasizes.

“Beads go beyond decoration; they carry meaning. In traditional music and culture, beads represent identity, status, and heritage. Each color, pattern, and placement can tell a story—whether it’s royalty, spirituality, or a rite of passage. When I wear beads during performances as a Prince of the Rhumbacane Kingdom, it’s full of style and fashion. I’m not just accessorizing—I’m honoring my ancestors, invoking energy, and visually expressing the soul of the music. They’re a bridge between sound and symbolism, making the entire experience more powerful and connected.”

It is at such events where Vivian Kabono says the power of beads extends beyond personal expression and is used to connect people and promote artistic movements. She is currently creating bracelets for a music artist under a slogan “The Movement,” a project that allows fans to show their support and spread the word about the artist’s message. Yaba, as the Prince of Rhumbacane, understands this connection deeply: “When I wear beads during performances…I’m not just accessorizing—I’m honoring my ancestors, invoking energy, and visually expressing the soul of the music. They’re a bridge between sound and symbolism, making the entire experience more powerful and connected.”

Whether embracing versatile pieces or personalizing your style with bead charms, let your accessories tell a story of heritage, craftsmanship, and progress.

The musician from DR Congo (then Zaire) did not realize that powerful forces within the government were orchestrating his deportation and eventual ban from the country. According to celebrated radio presenter Fred Obachi Machoka, government operatives contacted him and instructed him to tell Kanda Bongo Man to leave the country immediately.

“So nikaingia kwa room nikapata Kanda Bongo man amevaa vizuri ready to come down and perform, and he was in very good mood. I told him, ‘Kanda, kumeharibika’”, (loosely translated: I entered Kanda Bongo Man’s room and found him well dressed preparing for his show. He was in a good mood. I told him, ‘Kanda, things are bad),” he shared on Hot 96.

Recounting the events that led to his deportation, the seasoned radio presenter said the news caught Kanda off guard. He asked why he was being told to cancel his show, to which Machoka explained that the demands had come from State House and he had not been given any reason.

After stepping out of the room, they encountered police officers who informed the king of kwasa kwasa that he had to leave the country. He asked how he would depart since Air France had already left. The officers told him he would leave on the first available flight the following day.

The next day, Fred visited the hotel and found police officers still stationed outside Kanda’s room at the Stanley Hotel. Kanda informed them that he would leave on the Air France flight departing that night at 10 PM. The officers instructed him to go to the airport, where he would wait for his flight.

Obachi drove Kanda to Jomo Kenyatta Airport and was allowed access to the departure lounge. Before leaving, Fred pressed the officers to explain why Kanda was being deported.

“…wakaniambia kuna msichana ambaye alikuwa girlfriend wa Moi na Kanda Bongo Man akapita naye. Msichana gani, ‘eti Catherine Kasavuli’…(They told me there was a woman who was the girlfriend of President Moi, and Kanda Bongo Man had been involved with her. I asked, ‘Which woman?’ and they replied, ‘Catherine Kasavuli),’” shared the ‘Blackest Man in Africa.’

Machoka refuted these allegations, stating that he was with the Congolese musician every minute of his stay in the country.

When they arrived at the airport, they saw Catherine Kasavuli on TV reading the news. “I asked Kanda, ‘Do you see that woman on TV?’ He replied, ‘TV girl, very beautiful.’ I then asked if he knew her, and he said he didn’t have an idea who she was.

Machoka believed that based on Kanda’s reaction, he was telling the truth. After Kanda left the country, the radio presenter began his own investigation.

Machoka recalled that before Kanda performed at the KICC, he had been staying at the Intercontinental Hotel. While at the hotel, Hezekiah Oyugi, the powerful Permanent Secretary of Interior Security during the Moi era, had requested that Kanda perform at his daughter’s wedding in Rongo. However, Kanda refused, stating that he didn’t perform at private functions.

Instead, Kanda suggested they invite Tshala Muana, who was in the country at the time. Fred believed that Oyugi must have felt slighted and used the rumored relationship between President Moi and Catherine Kasavuli as a way to get back at Kanda.

The late queen of TV refuted claims that he was romantically involved with Kanda Bongo Man.

Interestingly, the Congolese musician was in love with a Kenyan woman, Rose Wambui Wahito. His affection for this Kenyan beauty, who later married Mombasa businessman and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Suleiman Shahbal in 1999, was immortalized in the song Wahito.

This article first appeared on whownsafrica.com

Sheryl Gabriella

The TikToker was denied a U.S. visa, leaving her ego in tatters. She shared her emotional experience on her platforms. The Tik Toker thought for a minute she would get the visa only to be issued with the dreaded ‘pink slip’.

Here is what she shared,

“She is asking you questions, and in your mind, you are thinking you have already gotten it. Then she puts her hands and says, ‘Sorry, but your visa has been declined’. Let me tell you, you leave the embassy crying. You do not show it. Even when someone greets you, you size them up. But it is okay, we are used to it. The good thing is you walk in there 50-50. I remember there was a soldier who said hello to me when I showed up and later he kept talking to me and I was sizing him.”

Njugush

Speaking on Iko Nini podcast, Abel Mutua shared how his bossom buddy Njuguna was denied a visa to perform in the US.

Abel Mutua

His show in Canada had to be cancelled after he was denied the much coveted visa. He said of the experience.

“I never went to Canada. They are very strict. Canada and the States have returned so many artists, so badly, they do not even care. Even Timo (Njugush) got a gig last year and they gave him that pink slip very fast. And they never tell you the reason.”

Flaqo

According to Iko Nini host, Flaqo was also denied a visa but he did not give details.

Jaymo ule Msee

He was also denied a visa.

Mwafrika

A frequent traveler, he was denied a visa to the UK because he did not have money in the bank.

“Last year they denied so many people visas. Jaymo Ule Msee, if I am not wrong Flaqo. For Britain, they ask you how much you intend to use and that is the money you are supposed to leave in the account,” Mwafrika said.

Karangu recently married his second wife, Carol Kim, and made a lavish Valentine’s Day gesture by gifting her a bouquet of flowers, which did not sit well with Trizah.

After much reflection, she announced that she was leaving her marriage, having struggled with it for some time.

The mother of three broke down on TikTok, sharing that she was depressed and had even sought medical help, accusing her husband of causing her pain.

She was taken to the hospital by TikToker Essy Wanjiku, who appealed to musician Samidoh’s estranged first wife, Edday Nderitu, to help Trizah leave the country and move to the United States.

Karangu’s attempts to make amends have been met with silence. In a video shared on social media, he urged her to consider their children and asked the public to stop insulting him, but she has yet to respond.

Another Tiktoker Esther Baumbach rallied support on TikTok and successfully crowdfunded over Kshs 600,000, as part of an initiative to raise Ksh 3 million within three days to help Trizah start a new life.

“A very good friend of mine has pledged KSh 100,000, I will bring it there tomorrow,” she said.

A portion of this lump sum will be allocated to Njeri’s upcoming business ventures, which she revealed she plans to launch soon.

Her first business will focus on shoes and clothing, with the proceeds coming from a donation she received from her supporters.

“She will receive a bale of shoes worth KSh 20,000 and Rish Kamunge has also pledged another one. It will also go hand in hand with a bale of clothes,” Esther said.

She received a brand new phone worth Kshs 30,000, which Esther revealed would be used for contacting her donors and suppliers.

“For the phone, she will be given a Samsung Galaxy S25 Galaxy and anytime you guys are ready we will connect you,” she added.

The icing on the cake will be a trip to Dubai for an extravagant holiday as soon as she gets a passport. Baumbach mentioned that she would personally purchase the ticket and cover the visa costs once Trizah has her passport.

However, Karangu remains hopeful that Trizah will return and appealed to her to consider their family’s future.

“A day will come when we solve issues with my wife. My wife please come home, and we can talk,” Muraya said.

The Bonfire Adventures Managing Director revealed that she will be undergoing liposuction to reduce her belly size.

The procedure known as Smart Lipo is a minimally invasive laser-assisted liposuction procedure used to remove excess fat and tighten skin. It involves inserting a small laser fiber under the skin to melt fat cells, making them easier to suction out while also stimulating collagen production for skin tightening.

In a video shared on her Instagram, Sarah revealed that she has always wanted to reduce her belly size.

While speaking with a cosmetic surgery advisor, the self-proclaimed billionaire shared her excitement about the procedure as she prepared for an online consultation with her doctor.

“Guys, you know I am very serious. I told you I want to remove this ‘katush’ (belly fat). Sitaki kuongezewa, nataka tu kutolewa. Wacha niongee na daktari,” she said.

Choosing Turkey as her ideal destination, she highlighted the country’s advanced surgical techniques and technology, emphasizing that the procedure would be less painful than traditional methods. She also praised Europe’s high professionalism and affordability in cosmetic surgery.

“I like that it’s not as painful as the traditional liposuction methods. I don’t know whether Kenya offers smart lipo, but what I like about doing it in Turkey is that it’s more pocket-friendly and comes with European-standard,” she noted.

The tours and travel mogul admitted that her initial hesitation stemmed from her fear of surgeries, including Caesarean sections during childbirth.

Mtalii, who has been in the spotlight following her highly publicized divorce from Simon Kabu, revealed that through her foundation, Virtuous Women, she plans to offer cosmetic surgery services, providing a platform for women to explore body transformation options.

“At Virtuous we are introducing cosmetic tourism where we connect you with safe and trusted body enhancement procedures, guided by a qualified cosmetic concierge every step of the way. From one-on-one consultations with top surgeons to exploring different procedures and expected outcomes, we ensure a smooth and informed journey to your desired look,” she wrote.

Netizens had mixed reactions to her decision, with some applauding her boldness and commitment to self-care, while others questioned its necessity—especially in light of recent concerns over negligence in Kenyan cosmetic enhancement institutions.

Opened in 1958, the cemetery has become the final resting place for tens of thousands, as many families opt for burial there rather than in their ancestral villages due to the prohibitive costs of transport and funeral expenses.

Celebrities are no exception, as their families often choose to bury them in a more accessible location to reduce costs. In some cases, they may lack suitable land upcountry, making a city burial the more practical option.

Here are some Kenyan celebrities buried in Lang’ata Cemetery:

Mzee Ojwang

Lang’ata Cemetery is the final resting place of legendary comedian Benson Wanjau, popularly known as Mzee Ojwang Hatari. Famous for his role in the television show Vitimbi, Mzee Ojwang entertained countless households with his comedic banter, often engaging in humorous disputes with his on-screen wife, Mama Kayai, played by Augusta Wanjiru.

Following his passing in 2015 due to pneumonia, he was laid to rest at Lang’ata Cemetery, honoring his contributions to Kenya’s entertainment industry.

Njambi Koikai 

In June 2024, the nation mourned the loss of media personality and reggae enthusiast Mary Njambi Koikai, affectionately known as Jahmby. Jahmby was renowned for her vibrant presence in the media and her advocacy for women’s health, particularly in raising awareness about endometriosis—a condition she battled for years.

She succumbed to complications related to the disease on June 3, 2024, while receiving treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

Her family chose to bury her alongside her grandmother at the Lang’ata Cemetery on June 14, 2024, honoring her impactful life and legacy.

Janet Wanja

Kenya bid farewell to volleyball icon Janet Wanja in December 2024. With an illustrious career in the sport, she represented Kenya in the 2004 Athens Olympics and played key roles in various international tournaments. After retiring as a player, she transitioned into coaching, with her last major role as Malkia Strikers’ trainer during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

She passed away on December 26, 2024, after a courageous battle with gallbladder cancer. Her family laid her to rest at Lang’ata Cemetery, in an event attended by notable Kenyan sportsmen and women in commemoration of her significant contributions to Kenyan sports.

Leonard Mambo Mbotela 

In February 2025, the nation was thrown into mourning following the loss of veteran journalist and broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela, whose voice became synonymous with Kenyan radio through his iconic program “Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?”

He had been receiving treatment at Nairobi West Hospital, where he had been admitted two weeks before his passing.

His family chose Lang’ata Cemetery as his final resting place, a decision that sparked discussions about the need for a dedicated Heroes’ Corner to honor distinguished individuals.

However, his family clarified that Mbotela did not have a rural home in Kenya, as his ancestral roots trace back to Malawi. Transporting his body to Mpanda, a village on the shores of Lake Malawi, would have incurred additional costs that the family could not afford.

Jaffar Jackson

Jackson Jaffar was a former M-Net Idol and prominent Kenyan stylist who passed away in January 2024. Jackson succumbed to complications arising from a stomach infection

Jaffar Jackson described himself as a Stylist, Choreographer Extraordinaire, Wardrobe Consultant and an Art Lover and was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in Kenya.

Purity Wambui, Wife to comedian Makokha

Vioja Mahakamani actor Alphonse Makokha’s wife, Purity Wambui, passed away in June 2024 after a prolonged battle with cancer. She was laid to rest at Lang’ata Cemetery, a decision that raised questions since Makokha owns a home in Vihiga County.

Lang’ata Cemetery is not just a burial site, but a place that honors the legacies of those who have significantly shaped Kenya’s culture and society. It remains a lasting tribute to the nation’s beloved icons.

Early Life

Kauthar grew up in Jericho Estate, Nairobi, where she discovered her passion for acting through church activities, participating in dramatizations of Bible stories.

Education

She began her education at Dr. Krapf Primary School in Maringo, Eastlands, Nairobi, and later attended Shauri Moyo Muslim Secondary School for her high school studies.

Career

Kauthar’s acting journey began in 1999 as a setbook actress at the Kenya National Theatre. In a past interview, she revealed that she earned Kshs 350 per book daily.

She got her onscreen breakthrough on KBC before moving to NTV, where she starred in various local shows.

Her career reached its peak in 2010 when she starred on Citizen TV’s Machachari, a Kenyan comedy-drama that depicted the lives of children growing up in urban Nairobi and their interactions with family, friends, and society.

On the show, she portrayed the mother of Almasi and Joy, two children from an affluent background who often faced challenges fitting in with their counterparts from less privileged parts of the city. Her strict yet relatable persona resonated with viewers, making her a beloved character.

After her time on Machachari, Kauthar continued to thrive in the Kenyan acting scene, starring in various projects such as Midlife Crisis(2020) by filmmaker Zippy Okoth, Volume (2023), and Sungura (2021).

Kauthar is also a skilled dancer, frequently participating in traditional performances.

Personal Life

The actress is a mother to one daughter, Mariam. She has been single since 2016 following the loss of her husband.

In her free time, Kauthar enjoys visiting national parks to observe wildlife and socializing with friends. She is also a fan of Zilizopendwa music.