Veteran Journalist and Former State House MC Sammy Lui Passes Away
Kenya has lost one of its most respected and familiar voices in broadcasting, veteran journalist and State House Master of Ceremonies, Sammy Lui Wang’ondu. The renowned KBC and KTN broadcaster passed away at his home in Subukia, Nakuru County, marking the end of a remarkable era in Kenyan media.
His death was confirmed on the afternoon of Thursday, October 23, by his son Chris Wang’ondu, although the exact cause of his passing has not yet been disclosed to the public. According to early reports, Lui breathed his last quietly at home, surrounded by family members.
Sammy Lui’s voice is one that many Kenyans will never forget. For decades, it echoed across the nation during official government functions and national celebrations. Known for his calm, commanding tone, Lui became one of the most recognisable broadcasters in the country.
During his prime, he served as Director of State Functions, overseeing major national events. His voice became a signature sound during President Daniel arap Moi’s era and continued to be heard well into Mwai Kibaki’s administration when Kibaki took office in 2002.
As one of Kenya’s pioneer journalists, Lui’s career began at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) back when it was known as the Voice of Kenya (VoK).
His professionalism, charisma, and eloquence made him stand out at a time when radio and television were the main sources of information for most Kenyans.
He later joined KTN, where he worked briefly before being appointed to the Office of the President as the Director of State Events, a role that solidified his place as a respected figure in both media and government circles.
Away from the spotlight, Sammy Lui was also a proud father. Many Kenyans may not have known that he was the father of Nick Wang’ondu, who represented Kenya in Big Brother Africa in 2011. This revelation has brought renewed public attention to the family following the broadcaster’s passing.
After news of his death broke, Kenyans from all walks of life took to social media to express their sorrow and share memories of the man they fondly called the “State House MC.” Tributes poured in from journalists, fans, and former colleagues, many describing him as a polished, humble, and deeply professional broadcaster.
“I remember him so well during national holidays. He was always confident, respectful, and eloquent in his presentations. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” one Kenyan wrote.
Another added, “He had one of the best voices in the country—deep, clear, and commanding. Kenya has truly lost a legend.”
In his later years, however, Lui faced some personal struggles that drew public sympathy. In November 2024, he made headlines after being evicted from his home in Woodley Estate, Nairobi, where he had lived for more than 50 years.
The eviction was carried out by the Nairobi County Government as part of an urban renewal housing project undertaken in partnership with Africa Reit Ltd.
The incident sparked public outrage, with many Kenyans questioning how such a respected public servant and media icon could face such treatment in his old age.
Despite his challenges, Sammy Lui remained admired for his decades of service to the nation and his unmatched contribution to Kenya’s broadcasting industry. His passing marks the loss of not just a journalist but a man whose voice and presence shaped Kenya’s history for generations.
May Sammy Lui Wang’ondu rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future journalists and broadcasters across the country.
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