Presidential MC Sammy Lui Wang’ondu dies
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of veteran journalist and former Director of State Functions, Sammy Lui Wang’ondu.
Wang’ondu reportedly passed away on Thursday morning at his home in Subukia, Nakuru County, though the cause of death has not yet been revealed.
The former broadcaster for Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) and KTN was discovered at his residence in Subukia, with initial reports suggesting he died while seated in a chair.
Neighbors mentioned that he had been feeling unwell and was living alone near the Subukia Marian National Shrine after moving from Nairobi.
Lui was a trailblazer in Kenyan journalism, starting his career at the Voice of Kenya (now KBC) before making his mark at KTN. He later took on the role of Director of State Events in the Office of the President, where his voice became a familiar presence at national functions. He served as the master of ceremonies during the tenures of former Presidents Daniel Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and part of Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.
Renowned for his powerful, distinctive voice and eloquence, Lui was celebrated as a presidential MC whose presence filled stadiums and official events. His sense of humor and charm also brought life to national occasions.
Beyond his media career, Lui spent over 50 years living in Nairobi’s Woodley Estate before moving to Nakuru.
He was among those affected by the government’s demolition of houses in the estate last year, which raised concerns about the lack of public involvement in the process.
Lui is survived by his family, including his son Nick Wang’ondu, who was a former contestant on Kenyan Big Brother. His body has been taken to Umash Funeral Home in Nakuru as family and friends prepare for burial arrangements.
Kenyans have taken to social media to express their condolences for the veteran broadcaster, reminiscing about his eloquence and significant contributions to media and state events.
Eliza Munyaga shared, “He had the best voice. Growing up, he was unmatched when it came to MCing during public holidays. May his soul rest in peace.”
The exact cause of his death has not yet been established.
Presidential MC Sammy Lui Wang’ondu dies
