Nairobi MCA proposes renaming Juja Road in honour of legendary broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela
The motion sponsored by Kiamaiko Member of County Assembly, Joseph Ndung’u, seeks to have the road renamed ‘Leonard Mambo Mbotela Road’ as a permanent mark of respect to the broadcaster’s enduring legacy.
A proposal to rename Nairobi’s Juja Road in honour of the late veteran broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela has been tabled at the Nairobi County Assembly, potentially paving the way for a lasting tribute to one of Kenya’s most iconic media personalities.
The proposal, if adopted, would see the busy road bear the name of the legendary broadcaster in recognition of his decades-long service in informing and uniting Kenyans through radio and television.
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The motion sponsored by Kiamaiko Member of County Assembly, Joseph Ndung’u, seeks to have the road renamed ‘Leonard Mambo Mbotela Road’ as a permanent mark of respect to the broadcaster’s enduring legacy.
“This would permanently honour the late veteran broadcaster, cementing his legacy as a distinguished Kenyan journalist, broadcaster, and patriot who made indelible contributions to the nation through his dedicated service and unwavering commitment to public communication,” read the motion in part.
Mbotela, who died in February at the age of 85, had a trailblazing career spanning decades, during which he became a familiar voice and face in Kenyan homes through his radio and television broadcasts.
He is best remembered for his resilience during the 1982 attempted coup, when he was picked up at his house in Ngara, ferried to the Voice of Kenya (VoK) - now Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), and coerced by rebel soldiers to announce a change of government.
Despite the danger, Mbotela maintained composure and professionalism, actions that earned him widespread admiration. The motion describes his actions during that time as acts of courage and patriotism.
“Acknowledging that his courage and selfless efforts during the 1982 attempted coup, where he risked his life to broadcast messages of peace and stability, demonstrated his unwavering dedication to the nation’s well-being, earning respect and admiration,” it stated.
The proposal argues that naming a major city road after him would serve as both a symbolic and practical gesture of national gratitude.
“Plastering his name on the major road would be upholding professionalism and consistency in using journalism to serve public interest, educate and entertain,” the motion added.
Among Mbotela’s most recognised contributions was his long-running programme Je, Huu ni Ungwana? (Is this decent?), which focused on etiquette, civic duty and moral behaviour. The show, broadcast both on radio and television, left a cultural imprint and became synonymous with his name.
“His iconic radio and television programmes, particularly Je, Huu ni Ungwana? and his coverage of national events played a pivotal role in shaping Kenyan culture, promoting civic responsibility, and fostering national unity,” reads the motion.
Juja Road is one of Nairobi’s key traffic corridors, linking various densely populated neighbourhoods. The motion argues that its renaming would ensure high visibility of Mbotela’s legacy.
“…Juja Road, being a major artery in Nairobi, offers a significant opportunity to publicly recognise and honour Leonard Mambo Mbotela’s contributions to the nation; this assembly therefore urges the county executive to initiate the process of renaming Juja Road to Leonard Mambo Mbotela Road, in honour of the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, EGH, in recognition of his exceptional service to the Republic of Kenya,” reads the motion.
If passed, the motion would task the county executive under Governor Johnson Sakaja with initiating formal renaming procedures, marking a significant milestone in the country’s recognition of media professionals in national heritage.
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