Veteran KBC and KTN broadcaster Sammy Lui Wang’ondu has passed away.
Wang'ondu's death was confirmed by his son, Chris, on the afternoon of Thursday, October 23, although the cause of his death is yet to be made public.
Preliminary reports indicate the veteran journalist and State events MC passed away in his home in Subukia, Nakuru county.
Lui had arguably one of the most recognisable voices in media in his prime; in particular, he once worked as a director of State functions.
His voice was particularly distinct during the Moi era and transcended to Mwai Kibaki's era when the latter assumed power in 2002.
Having been one of Kenya’s pioneer journalists, Sammy’s career in media started in KBC when the station was known as the Voice of Kenya (VoK).
He then moved to KTN, where he enjoyed a brief stint before moving to the Office of the President as the Director of State Events.
Unbeknownst to many Kenyans, the late broadcaster is also the father of Nick Wang’ondu, who represented Kenya in the reality TV show Big Brother Africa in 2011.
Kenyans have since taken to social media to mourn Wang'ondu, who has, over the years, come to be known as the 'State House MC'.
"I remember him during national holidays. He was very polished in his broadcast. May he rest in eternal peace," user wrote.
Another added, "One of the very best in social event MC. Great voice indeed. May his soul rest in eternal peace."
In his twilight years, Wang’ondu made headlines for controversial reasons after he was evicted from his house in Woodley Estate, which he has lived in for over 50 years in November 2024.
At the time, the Nairobi county government of Nairobi revealed carrying out this eviction exercise as part of its urban renewal housing project in partnership with Africa Reit Ltd.
