NAIROBI, Kenya — Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, has joined a chorus of leaders and Kenyans mourning the passing of legendary broadcaster Amina Fakii.
Fakii, who spent decades shaping Kenya’s media landscape, passed away on December 21 at the age of 83.
Owalo described Fakii as a trailblazer whose influence extended far beyond the radio studio.
“Amina Fakii’s voice, professionalism and dedication to public broadcasting inspired generations and helped shape Kenya’s broadcast landscape,” he said.
“Her legacy will continue to live on through the many lives she touched on and off air. My heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, friends and the entire KBC fraternity during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”
Fakii’s career spanned decades at the Voice of Kenya, now the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), where she became a household name. Her distinctive voice, engaging on-air presence, and unwavering commitment to public service made her a trusted figure among listeners nationwide.
Generations admired her credibility and professionalism, while colleagues hailed her lasting contribution to Kenya’s media industry. Known for her integrity, calm demeanour, and the ability to connect with audiences, Fakii earned respect from peers and listeners alike.
“Her work left a lasting imprint on Kenya’s media landscape, shaping the way radio broadcasting evolved in the country,” Owalo added.
Tributes poured in across social media, with Kenyans expressing grief and celebrating the life of a broadcaster whose presence became synonymous with trust and excellence. Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho described Fakii as a legendary media personality whose contributions were immense.
“It is with deep sorrow that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the legendary KBC radio presenter Amina Fakii following the sad news of her passing,” Joho said in a statement.
He lauded her dedication, professionalism, and the integrity with which she served the public, noting that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of broadcasters.
Like the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, Fakii is remembered as one of the pioneers who shaped Kenya’s radio culture, using the platform to serve the public with integrity and purpose. Her voice and work remain a lasting testament to the power of media in connecting and informing the nation.
