President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence to the family, relatives and friends of veteran radio broadcaster Mohammed Juma Njuguna (pictured) who died yesterday at a Nairobi hospital.
President Kenyatta described the late Njuguna as a highly decorated radio journalist, refined broadcaster and trailblazer who used his role in the mass media to inform and entertain Kenyans, especially through his moving football commentaries.
“We are filled with grief and a deep sense of loss. Mohammed was an outstanding journalist. He was an inspiring figure in the media industry, and a great mentor to upcoming journalists,” the President eulogised.
The late Njuguna was awarded the Head of State Commendation in 2010 by Retired President Mwai Kibaki for his immense contribution to the development of broadcast journalism in the country. Deputy President William Ruto also eulogised Njuguna, saying he was a witty and friendly man.
Imagery and humour
“He kept us glued to our radios with his masterful football commentary interspersed with imagery, humour and tidbits,” the DP said.
Before he passed away Njuguna was working as a content producer at Radio Citizen, a role he assumed in 2016. He had joined Royal Media Services in 1999 from KBC the national broadcaster where he served as a sports journalist.
He was recognised as the pioneer of the English Premier League commentary in Kenya with over 40 years of experience in the industry. He will be remembered for his prowess in the commentary, which has since been picked up by many stations in the country.
Media personality Saddique Shabaan paid tribute to the late Njuguna noting, “One time, whilst on air, Njuguna called out one of his senior bosses who had not honoured his part of a bargain. The boss complied after being called out on air. Governor Alfred Mutua described him as an exemplary broadcaster, a decent man and a lover of Kenya. “It breaks my heart to learn of the passing of my colleague and friend. His voice did not just comment - it soothed, advised and was part of our identity,” he said.
His character saw him make friends with the political elite, among them former presidents Daniel arap Moi, Kibaki and Uhuru as well as opposition chief Raila Odinga. In an interview on Hot 96 FM Hot Drive with Patrick Igunza in October 2018, Njuguna narrated his short stint as a producer at BBC, saying how he was then a ”young handsome man and very tantalising” but now ”an old handsome man.”
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