NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyan comedian and actor DJ Shiti is mourning the death of his father, Omwami Richard Ndede Mbanda, who died on the morning of Wednesday, September 16, 2026, following a seven-year battle with cancer.
The entertainer announced the death on Thursday, September 17, sharing a personal tribute to his father alongside a compilation of moments they shared.
In his message, DJ Shiti reflected on the lengthy illness before bidding farewell to his father.
“My Old Man Joined his Ancestors Yesterday Morning, After Battling Cancer for 7 years. One day cancer will also die. Rest in power Omwami Richard Ndede Mbanda.”
The tribute gave fans a glimpse into the relationship between the comedian and his father, as Shiti shared photographs and video clips capturing moments they spent together.
The announcement has since attracted messages of sympathy from fellow entertainers, friends and fans who have joined the comedian in mourning his loss.
Shiti’s message placed the seven-year cancer battle at the centre of his tribute.
Rather than disclose details about his father’s specific diagnosis or treatment, the comedian focused on the length of the illness and his hope that cancer would eventually be defeated.
The comedian then described his father as having “joined his ancestors” before asking him to rest in power.
Richard Ndede Mbanda’s death marks the end of a long period during which his family lived with the challenges associated with his illness. However, Shiti has not publicly disclosed the type of cancer his father had or provided further details about his medical treatment.
Alongside his written message, DJ Shiti shared footage featuring personal moments with his late father.
The video includes clips of the two spending time together, including moments inside a vehicle and other family settings. The tribute also allowed Shiti to remember his father through moments from his life rather than focusing solely on the circumstances surrounding his death.
His announcement quickly drew reactions from people in Kenya’s entertainment industry. Comedian and media personality Dr Ofweneke was among those who sent condolences, writing:
“My condolences, bro!! Comfort……”
Other friends and followers also responded with messages of sympathy and encouragement.
As the family begins the mourning process, a payment number has also been shared for people who wish to support them.
At the time of publication, the family had not publicly announced detailed burial arrangements.
Shiti has also not publicly shared further information about his father’s illness beyond confirming that he had battled cancer for seven years.
DJ Shiti, whose name is Steven Oduor Dede, is known for his work as a comedian, actor, content creator and master of ceremonies.
He became widely recognised by Kenyan audiences through his comedy and acting work, including appearances connected to The Real Househelps of Kawangware and Churchill Show.
His father’s death comes at a deeply personal moment for the entertainer, who chose to publicly remember him through photographs, video and a short but emotional tribute.
“Rest in power Omwami Richard Ndede Mbanda.”
