The Coast media fraternity is mourning the death of celebrated radio presenter Fatuma Mwangala, popularly known as Toto Bomba la Kaya, who passed away at her home in Kwale County after a short illness.
Known for her deep voice and magnetic presence on air, Toto Bomba was a household name among lovers of Taarab music across the Coast region and beyond.
According to colleagues, she had been unwell for a week and was admitted to hospital for treatment before being discharged. On Monday, September 1, she was planning to resume her duties at JAC FM early next week, a community radio station based in Kwale. However, her health deteriorated that same night, and she succumbed to high blood pressure complications and breathing difficulties shortly after.
Toto Bomba’s career took off in July 2007 when she joined Radio Kaya, becoming one of its pioneer presenters. She co-hosted popular shows such as Voroni Enehu (Breakfast Show) alongside Gunga Kitsao and later with Beatrice Dama Kahindi, before moving to the evening programme, Dziloni Mbidzo (Good Evening).
Her popularity soared when she hosted the afternoon Taarab show, Mirindimo ya Kimwambao, drawing a loyal fan base from across Kenya and even neighbouring Tanzania.
In 2019, she and her fellow presenters—including Sister Shirneez, Pyukapu-PPO, Bahati Ngazi, and Teddy Nyae Watinga—moved to Msenangu FM, a Mijikenda radio station owned by Mediamax Limited. She later transitioned to JAC FM, where she continued captivating audiences until her untimely death.
Radio Kaya Station Manager Victor Caleb confirmed the news, describing her as “a passionate, multi-talented broadcaster whose voice brought joy to thousands of listeners.”
Colleagues and fans have flooded social media with messages of condolence, celebrating her contribution to local radio and the Taarab music scene.
“Toto was more than a colleague; she was family. Her voice carried warmth, humour and culture. We have lost a true gem of the Coast media,” said Radio Kaya Station Manager Victor Caleb.
“She brought life to our mornings and afternoons. Listening to her was like sitting with a friend who understood Taarab and our way of life,” shared Freere town Administration officer who is also a journalist, Zubeda Farid.
“Her passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. She championed local talent and inspired many young broadcasters,” added fellow presenter Beatrice Dama Kahindi.
Toto Bomba la kaya will be mourned at her home in Kwale and the casket bearing her remains will leave Kwale on Wednesday 1pm for burial at her parents home in Mwabuga, Tsimba under the Islamic rituals.
