Legendary former KTN news anchor Njoroge Mwaura, whose commanding presence and unique style of delivering news revolutionised Kenya’s media landscape, has died at the age of 74.

Mwaura passed away on Sunday morning at a Nairobi hospital after undergoing surgery following a brief illness.

Beginning his career at KTN in the early 1990s, Mwaura quickly became a trusted voice in Kenyan households. His signature segment, Njoroge’s Notebook, was renowned for its incisive commentary on pressing national issues, dedicated to informing and educating the public.

After leaving KTN following years of excellence, he made a remarkable comeback in 2012, guiding the station through a pivotal rebranding phase before retiring a year later. Beyond his on-screen presence, he was a mentor to many, earning him the affectionate title of The TV Legend among peers and aspiring journalists alike.

His wife, Lucy Njoroge, confirmed his passing, saying he died peacefully in the early hours of Sunday morning.

“He underwent surgery, but unfortunately, he did not respond well thereafter. He was taken to ICU, but sadly he did not make it,” Lucy told The Standard.

His former colleagues remember him as a consummate professional who set the gold standard for journalism in Kenya.

John Bundotich, The Standard Group’s Acting Editor-in-Chief, recalls a sharp and fearless storyteller who graced the television industry with deep commitment and journalistic integrity.

“We have lost one of the best in the business. His hard-hitting approach and ability to dissect complex issues made him a trusted voice in Kenyan homes,” said Bundotich. “We worked closely together when I was the Chief Sub-Editor, and I remember him as a great team player and a selfless journalist.”

Lilian Odera, KTN’s Managing Editor, remembers Mwaura as one of the finest TV anchors the station has ever produced.

“Mwaura was exceptional—one of the best in the business. His articulation and mastery of the English language were outstanding. He had a keen interest in developing new talent and was actively involved in training young and upcoming news anchors. Beyond his professionalism, he was amiable and an excellent human being. We shall surely miss him,” said Lilian.

Sports Editor Hassan Jumaa described Mwaura as the “father of anchoring,” a mentor who continued to guide younger journalists even after leaving the newsroom.

“He trained us. Even after he had left, he would still call to correct us after watching our broadcasts. He was a father figure to many of us. When I joined in 2006, we shared many good moments,” said Jumaa. “He always used to say that if you’re unsure about a pronunciation, it’s better to research in the newsroom and feel foolish there than to mispronounce it on air before the world.”

Joe Ageyo, Nation Media Group’s Editor-in-Chief, who joined KTN in the early 2000s, recalls Mwaura’s immense influence.

“As a young reporter joining the KTN newsroom in the early 2000s, I was awe-struck by the almost mythical persona of Njoroge Mwaura. A consummate broadcast personality of his time, Njoroge Mwaura redefined television news with his authoritative voice and professional poise. A stickler for good enunciation and diction, Njoroge elevated the craft of news anchoring to a whole new level.”

Ageyo also remembers Mwaura’s exceptional skills in covering major historical events.

“At the height of some of Kenya’s most monumental historical moments, such as the struggle for a new constitution and the historic 2002 General Election, Njoroge Mwaura distinguished himself as the indisputable symbol of credibility.”

Investigative journalist Dennis Onsarigo, who worked with Mwaura at KTN, described him as a passionate and approachable professional.

“I’m shocked by the news of the passing of Mwaura. The media industry will remember him as an inspiring media personality who had a deep understanding of the media landscape. During my brief time with him at KTN, I recall an approachable journalist who was readily available for consultations.”

Eliud Owalo, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Performance and Delivery Management in the Executive Office of the President of Kenya, shared his tribute.

“Njoroge’s Notebook,” where he tackled critical national issues, was outstanding. Alongside Catherine Kasavuli, he redefined the 9:00 pm news, setting a gold standard in broadcast journalism,” stated Owalo.

Kenyans online also shared their tributes.

“He was such a talent and every time he’d take to the screen you’d see and hear authority as he delivered the news, we’ll miss him dearly,” said Albert Mwalimu, a budding journalist.

Chris Mungai wrote on X: “The death of Mwaura is a huge loss and setback for the Kenyan media industry. Here’s a man who made us fall in love with television news, may he rest well.”

Mwaura is survived by his wife, Lucy, and four children.