Veteran journalist Motegi Njao has died, his family has confirmed.
Njao, who last worked as a journalist at Citizen TV, where he co-presented the Breakfast and Accountability programmes, died peacefully on Thursday evening, his family said.
“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our father. He passed away peacefully on the evening of June 27, 2024 at 7 p.m.,” his family said.
The late Motegi had a distinguished media career spanning decades, working with leading media organisations, but was popularly known for his morning show “Cheche” on the Royal Media Service channel.
His relatives described him as a cornerstone of the family and a cherished figure in the community, whose generosity, sense of humor and dedication to his career left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
“My father was an amazing man whose generosity, sense of humor, and dedication to his career left a lasting impression on everyone who met him. He was not only the cornerstone of our family, but also a cherished figure in our community,” reads part of a statement from his family.
The family said they are making funeral arrangements and will announce details in the next day or two.
“Your presence will be greatly appreciated as we gather to honor his memory. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. We are extremely grateful for your continued support and for the love and friendship you have shown my father throughout his life,” they added.
He began his journey in media in 1979, and his passion has grown since the days of Kenya’s founding president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.
Motegi left the Nation Media Group in 2005 after 24 years at the media house and later joined Citizen TV in 2006 where he worked until his retirement. He also served as Chairman of the Media Associations Review Committee.
He has also worked in other media houses, including the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).
Many journalists have mourned Motegi, with some describing him as a great journalist who left his mark on the industry.
The head of communications services in the office of the vice president, Njeri Rujin, hailed Motegi as a journalist who left an indelible mark on Kenyan journalism.
“Mutegi Ngau left an indelible mark on Kenyan journalism. He mentored many of us. He leaves behind a rich legacy. It is time for him to rest. Rest in peace old man,” said Ms. Rogin, a long-time editor at the Nation.
David McCully, his former morning show host, remembers Motegi as a man who provided advice and talent to many in the industry.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my great colleague, co-host and speaker Motegi Njau. May your work on this earth be rewarded and that your memory lives on forever among those whom you mentored, bestowed talents upon, or who enjoyed your kindness,” McCallie said.
ODM communications director Philippe Itali, who worked with Mr. Njau in the newsroom, recalls how Mr. Motegi taught him the art of writing a good story and recounting events captured in the field.
“Ital, a good journalist writes facts and only facts. You don’t need rumors to be a good journalist, dig deep and you will achieve incredible success in your career… God bless Motegi Ngau,” he said.
“A great media personality, Motegi Ngau will be remembered for his commitment to professionalism. I will remember him as my elder friend and a friend since our days working together at NMG in the late 90s when he was in charge of the Nation’s News Desk. May he rest in eternal peace,” wrote Edward Mwase on X, Media Industry Strategy and Innovation Advisor at the Centre for Business Innovation and Training (CBIT).