The media fraternity in Mombasa remains in shock following the demise of their colleague, Sam Makenda.
Makenda was a household name between the year 2000-2007 when the first Coast region FM station, Baraka FM hit the airwaves.
The veteran broadcaster became the darling of the Coast region following his witty ways of shaping the Coast regional politics through his political talk show ‘Chanja Maswala’.
He hosted various politicians both from the region and other parts of the country, giving locals the platform to discuss and express their political views and opinions.
At the station, the humble Makenda also hosted a Gospel show, ‘Utukufu Jiwa’
Makenda worked for Baraka FM from its establishment in the year 2000-2007 where he left to try his luck in the political arena.
After he lost, Makenda ventured into different personal interests and worked with various non governmental organisations in Machakos and Nairobi.
“May God rest your soul in eternal peace. Though we had recently communicated and you told me you are unwell but fairing well, death came before my planned journey to visit you. Rest easy Makenda,” said KBC Channel 1 TV, Nairobi based reporter, Michael Mwandigha.
Also, among those who mourned Makenda are Coast based VOA News reporter Josphat Kioko who worked with Makenda at Baraka FM.
“I am shocked and in disbelief following the demise of the former Baraka FM Presenter Sam Makenda, may God rest his soul in eternal peace and give his family strength. We have lost an icon in the Coast radio industry,” he said.
His wife Ruth Makenda confirmed the demise of the household former Journalist.
According to the family, Makenda took his final bow on Wednesday, 15, 2024, after a short illness at Machakos hospital.
The late will be remembered for his flagship show Chanja Maswala which had a huge following in Coast region.
He is survived by four children.
