Celebrated Nairobi conductor Gerald Mwangi Njoroge popularly known as "Makanga Bae," has died, his cousin Murugi Mwinyi reported on Friday.
"RIP Cuz, "You had too much life left to live, we will miss you", wrote Mwinyi, Mwangi's close family member.
Mwangi was admitted at the Kenyatta National Hospital following a road accident that led to the amputation of one of his legs.
The conductor gained traction online after Nairobians spotted his dedication, commitment, hygiene, and good looks as he worked for the renowned Super Metro Sacco. He depicted a different side of matatu conductors, contrary to the norm in Nairobi where conductors are viewed as dirty, rowdy, and rude.
Mwangi was not only loved by Nairobians but also by his colleagues for his charm and dedication to his job.
Mwangi was involved in a road accident while on duty, and as a result, he was rushed to the Kenyatta National Hospital. Days before his death, Super Metro Sacco made an urgent appeal for blood donations to help save his life.
He underwent medical care and surgery, but unfortunately, his condition worsened. The amputation was an attempt to save his life after the injuries sustained in the accident became critical.
Despite the collective efforts of medical professionals and the overwhelming support from the public, Mwangi succumbed to his injuries. Close family members have eulogized Mwangi as a dedicated young man, despite the nature of his job.
"He was so passionate about his work. Such a testament that whatever work you are involved in, be excellent at it. Stand out. RIP, Gero", Mwangi's cousin wrote.
According to his family, his death came as a shock because he was doing better and they were expecting that he would recover.
Despite his popularity, Mwangi's journey as a tout has not been without challenges. He is a degree holder who initially faced skepticism from his family regarding his choice of profession as a conductor. In a previous interview with a local media outlet, the conductor revealed that his mother did not want him to become a tout.
He however turned out to shock many, unlike his peers, he was calm, collected, organized and polite. He was also very neat and clean. This earned him respect amongst his colleagues and Kenyans alike.