If you grew up listening to Kenyan radio or watching local television, then the name Leonard Mambo Mbotela probably brings back waves of nostalgia. For over five decades, his voice resonated in Kenyan homes, shaping conversations and entertaining millions through his signature show, Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?. From captivating storytelling to hard-hitting journalism, Mbotela was more than just a broadcaster—he was a national icon.

But who was the man behind the microphone? What made his career so legendary? In this biography, we take you through his inspiring journey, from his early life and career milestones to the challenges he faced and the incredible legacy he left behind. Let’s dive in!

Quick Information Table

Full Name	Leonard Mambo Mbotela
Date of Birth	May 29, 1940
Place of Birth	Mombasa, Kenya
Date of Death	February 7, 2025
Age at Death	84 years
Nationality	Kenyan
Profession	Journalist, Broadcaster
Years Active	1964–2022
Notable Work	“Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?”
Spouse	Alice Mwikali
Children	Aida Mbotela, Jimmy Mbotela, George Mbotela

 

Leonard Mambo Mbotela Wikipedia, Early Life, Tribe and Education

Leonard Mambo Mbotela was born on May 29, 1940, at Lady Grigg Hospital in Mombasa, Kenya. He was the first of eight children born to James and Aida Mbotela. His father was an educator who taught at institutions such as Shimo La Tewa High School and Kabianga High School before retiring as an education officer. His mother worked with the “Maendeleo ya Wanawake” organization.

Mbotela traced his ancestry to Malawi. His great-grandfather was among the slaves intercepted and freed by the British Navy in Mombasa when a ship carrying captives from Malawi was seized. This historical background deeply influenced his identity and family history.

From an early age, he aspired to be a broadcaster. He enjoyed interacting with people and had a keen interest in communication. He completed his secondary education at Kitui High School in 1962.

Career Journey

Mbotela’s career in journalism began shortly after completing his education. He first worked as a trainee reporter at The Standard in Nakuru before joining the Voice of Kenya (VoK), now known as the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), in 1964.

In 1966, he launched Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?, a radio and television program focusing on ethics and proper conduct in society. The show became a national sensation and remained on air for over 55 years, making it one of the longest-running programs in Kenyan media history.

In 1967, Mbotela traveled to London for a one-year journalism training program at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). This experience further refined his skills, making him one of Kenya’s most recognizable voices.

Leonard Mambo Mbotela: 1982 Coup Incident

One of the defining moments in Mbotela’s career occurred during the August 1, 1982, attempted coup against President Daniel arap Moi. He was taken at gunpoint by rebel soldiers and forced to announce on live television that the government had been overthrown. Shortly after, government forces regained control, and he was instructed to report the coup’s failure. This event highlighted his prominence in Kenyan media and his involuntary role in a historic national crisis.

Retirement and Later Years

After an illustrious career spanning nearly six decades, Mbotela retired in 2022 as Kenya’s longest-serving broadcaster. His impact on Kenyan journalism remained evident long after he left the airwaves. In 2022, he was sworn in as a member of the National Heroes Council, an honor recognizing his contribution to media and national development.

Leonard Mambo Mbotela Parents wife, children & family

Leonard Mambo Mbotela was married to Alice Mwikali, and they had three children: Aida, Jimmy, and George. Despite his public life, he kept his family affairs relatively private.

• Wife: Alice Mwikali (married in 1970 until his death in 2025)
• Children: Aida Mbotela, Jimmy Mbotela, George Mbotela
• Parents: James Mbotela (father), Aida Mbotela (mother)

Leonard Mambo Mbotela illness and Death

In 2020, Mbotela was hospitalized at Nairobi South Hospital for two weeks and appealed for financial help to clear his medical bills. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta stepped in and paid KSh 1.1 million to cover the expenses.

He had recurring health issues in his later years and was admitted to Nairobi West Hospital in early 2025. He passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 84.

Publications

Mbotela documented his life and career in his memoir:

• Je, Huu Ni Ungwana? A Memoir (2019)

Legacy

Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s influence on Kenyan media is immeasurable. Through his show Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?, he shaped public discourse on ethics and proper conduct. His dedication to journalism, his resilience through political challenges, and his ability to connect with audiences made him a household name. His voice will be remembered as one of the most iconic in Kenya’s broadcasting history.

Leonard Mambo Mbotela passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 84. He had been receiving treatment at Nairobi West Hospital before his death.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Leonard Mambo Mbotela

Who was Leonard Mambo Mbotela?

Leonard Mambo Mbotela was a renowned Kenyan journalist and broadcaster best known for his show Je, Huu Ni Ungwana? which aired for over 55 years on KBC.

When was Leonard Mambo Mbotela born?

He was born on May 29, 1940, in Mombasa, Kenya.

Is Leonard Mambo Mbotela still Alive?

No, mbotela is dead

When did Leonard Mambo Mbotela die?

He passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 84.

Who was Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s wife?

He was married to Alice Mwikali from 1970 until his death in 2025.

Leonard Mambo Mbotela Parents?

James Mbotela (father), Aida Mbotela (mother)

How many children did he have?

He had three children: Aida Mbotela, Jimmy Mbotela, and George Mbotela.

What was his notable work?

His most famous work was the radio and TV program Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?, which focused on ethics and public behavior.

What happened to him during the 1982 coup attempt?

During the failed coup against President Moi, Mbotela was forced at gunpoint to announce on air that the government had been overthrown.

When did Leonard Mambo Mbotela retire?

He retired in 2022 after 58 years in broadcasting.

What was his estimated net worth?

His net worth was estimated to be between KSh 10 million and KSh 50 million at the time of his death.

Did he write any books?

Yes, he authored Je, Huu Ni Ungwana? A Memoir, which details his career and experiences in the media industry.

Conclusion

Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s life was one of dedication, resilience, and influence. From his humble beginnings in Mombasa to becoming one of Kenya’s most iconic broadcasters, he left an indelible mark on the country’s media landscape. His show, Je, Huu Ni Ungwana?, not only entertained but also educated generations of Kenyans on ethics and good conduct. Even in the face of adversity, including the 1982 coup and health struggles in his later years, he remained a steadfast figure in journalism. His legacy as a veteran broadcaster and ethical commentator will continue to inspire future generations of journalists in Kenya and beyond.