In Memoriam- List Of Kenyan Celebrities Who Passed On In 2025

The year 2025 marked a somber period for Kenya, as the nation mourned the passing of several iconic figures whose contributions spanned the entertainment, sports, literary, and public service sectors. These personalities shaped Kenya’s culture, inspired generations, and left profound, indelible marks in their respective fields.

Here is a look at some of the notable figures the country lost this year:

1. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o: The Literary Giant

Renowned Kenyan author, scholar, and activist Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o passed away at the age of $87$ in the United States of America on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. His family announced his passing, stating he “lived a full life, fought a good fight.”

A towering figure in African literature, Ngũgĩ’s influence extended across continents. Known for seminal novels such as A Grain of Wheat, Petals of Blood, and Devil on the Cross, he championed the use of African languages in literature and staunchly resisted colonial and neocolonial systems of oppression throughout his life. Born in 1938 in Kamiriithu, Limuru, his work was deeply intertwined with Kenya’s struggle for independence and postcolonial identity. As per his wishes, his body was cremated in the United States.

2. Leonard Mambo Mbotela: The Broadcasting Legend

Veteran media personality Leonard Mambo Mbotela died in February 2025 at the age of $85$. His death was confirmed by his daughter-in-law, Anne Mbotela, stating the legendary journalist had been unwell for some time.

Mbotela was famously known for his popular radio and TV programme, Jee Huuu ni Ungwana, which aired on KBC. Born in Freetown, Mombasa in 1940, he was a pioneering voice in Kenyan broadcasting. He was married to Alice Mwikali, and together they had three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George Mbotela.

3. Betty Bayo: Gospel Star

Gospel singer Betty Bayo, the renowned Busy Busy hitmaker, passed away after a battle with acute leukemia and excessive bleeding, conditions that worsened in her final days.

After initially being admitted to AAR Hospital on Kiambu Road, she was transferred to the Kenyatta National Hospital, where she succumbed at 1:03 p.m. on Monday. Betty’s green casket was lowered into a grave plastered with white tiles on Thursday, November 20, 2025, during an emotional ceremony attended by her family and close friends at her home in Mugumo Estate.

4. Charles Ouda: Thespian and Actor

The Kenyan theatre and entertainment scene mourned the loss of legendary actor Charles Ouda. His fiancée, media personality Ciru Muriuki, announced his passing on the night of Saturday, February 3, 2024, in a joint statement with the actor’s family.

“It is with deep sorrow that the family of Charles ‘Charlie’ J. Ouda and Ciru Muriuki inform you of his passing on the night of $3^{\text{rd}}$ February 2024. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend. Charlie was 38 years old,” the statement read.

Ouda’s legacy is defined by his rich roles in some of Kenya’s most popular TV shows and his significant contributions to the creative space.

5. KK Mwenyewe: Comedian and Satirist

Popular Kenyan comedian and political satirist KK Mwenyewe, real name Zachariah Kariuki, died after a short illness. He was pronounced dead at Kiambu Level 4 Hospital.

KK Mwenyewe shot to social media fame around late 2022 for his witty and humorous political satire, especially his viral impersonations of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His ability to mimic Gachagua’s distinctive speaking style and mannerisms with immaculate precision quickly earned him a dedicated following.

6. Brian Chira: TikTok Sensation

Controversial TikToker Brian Chira, who rapidly rose to digital fame, died in March 2025. Police confirmed his demise, noting that he died after sustaining serious head injuries in a hit-and-run accident in the Karuri area of Kiambu County.

Following his death, a fundraiser led by fellow TikToker Baba Talisha quickly gathered momentum, raising Ksh $5$ million within $48$ hours to give the content creator a decent send-off. He was buried at his family home in Gathanje, Ingitei village, Githunguri in Kiambu County.

7. Bilal Wanjau: Film and Theatre Actor

The Kenyan film and theatre industry also mourned the loss of actor Bilal Wanjau. Actress Sandra Dacha confirmed that Wanjau passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital due to diabetes-related complications. Wanjau was laid to rest the following day, on Friday, December 5, 2025, in an emotional burial at his rural home in Machakos.