Veteran radio presenter Festus Amimo, the Head of Radio Mayienga at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), has died, his station confirmed in a statement on Sunday, December 7.
Amimo, widely respected for his authoritative voice and engaging style, passed away suddenly just hours after posting a social media tribute to a friend.
The seasoned broadcaster hosted the popular Mayienga FM morning show (Gari Mokinyi).
Mayienga FM described the loss as shocking, remembering him as a dedicated professional whose passion for radio was unmatched.
“It is with profound shock, deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of our head of station, Festus Amimo,” Mayienga FM posted.
Friends and family, and colleagues joined in the tributes, mourning the veteran journalist.
In a brief message, Interior PS Raymond Omollo expressed shock and sorrow, describing the death as painful and unexpected.
"Festus was a warm soul, a steady presence and a true friend whose kindness and humility touched everyone around him," Omollo said.
Radio stations, especially those that broadcast in Dholuo, also sent their tributes.
“Officials and journalists at Radio Namlolwe extend their most profound condolences concerning the sudden passing of Mayienga FM head of radio, Festus Amimo,” Namlolwe Radio posted.
On Friday, December 5, just before his death, Amimo posted a message mourning the loss of a close friend.
"We have this evening lost a friend, Rose Yier. RIP," he wrote.
Beyond KBC, Amimo served as the Chair of the Luo Journalists Association, where he was influential in mentoring young journalists.
The radio station had not yet disclosed the cause of his death.
