Radio Jambo Presenter Esther Mwende Pays Emotional Tribute to Her Late Mother 23 Years After Her Death

Esther Mwende Macharia has paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Tabitha Mumbua Macharia, marking 23 years since her passing.

In an emotional social media post, Mwende reflected on the loss of her mother, describing the day she died as the saddest moment of her life. Despite more than two decades having passed, she said her mother’s influence continues to shape the person she is today.

The First Person to Believe in Her Talent

Mwende revealed that her mother was the first to recognize her passion and talent for public speaking, long before she became one of Kenya’s most recognizable radio voices.

She recalled how Tabitha would patiently listen as she recited poems and Bible verses she had helped her memorize.

“She used to sit down and listen as I recited poems and bible verses to her that she had couched me.”

According to the presenter, those early moments of encouragement played a significant role in nurturing the confidence that would eventually launch her broadcasting career.

Remembering a Loving Mother

Describing her mother as a woman full of love and warmth, Mwende said Tabitha had an infectious laugh that was even louder than her own.

She remembered her as the pillar of their family, raising her and her younger brother with love while creating cherished memories through family celebrations, including trips to Makadara during Eid festivities.

Mwende also recalled that her mother affectionately called her “my dorra,” a nickname she still treasures.

A Lasting Spiritual Legacy

Beyond her encouragement and affection, Mwende credited her mother with introducing her to the Christian faith and teaching her the importance of prayer and reading the Bible.

“She introduced me to Christ, she helped me know how to read the word and pray, ndio maana maombi huwa tunapiga na shetani hapa huwa hatoboi.”

She said the spiritual foundation her mother instilled in her continues to guide her life today.

Lessons That Live On

The celebrated radio host also reflected on the values her mother passed down, including kindness, compassion and loving others without discrimination.

“Her heart was a jewel, her heart was pure, she loved so hard, taught me how to love people genuinely and fight for your own. She taught me how to love without prejudice, being good to people, love like Christ.”

Although Tabitha is no longer alive to witness her daughter’s success on the airwaves, Mwende said her mother’s teachings remain at the heart of everything she does.

She concluded the emotional tribute with a simple message expressing her enduring love for her mother.

“I will always love you.”