The family of Veteran KBC journalist, Fred Nyongesa Ongalo, is in mourning following his death on Sunday, June 11,
Ongalo, a retired journalist, worked for the national radio station for 31 years since he joined the station in the 1970s.
His death was announced by Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka who eulogised him as a renowned journalist who inspired many through his radio programs.
“Saddened to learn of the demise of Fred Nyongesa Ongalo, a renowned journalist who worked for KBC Radio for 31 years,” announced the Bungoma Governor.
Lusaka added the late Nyongesa will be remembered for his popular program ‘Viumbe Vyenye Uhai’ beloved by listeners.
The governor described the late journalist as a neighbour and personal friend who promoted tournaments for youths in Kamukuywa and Bungoma at large.
“The late Ongalo was not only a neighbour and personal friend but also a believer of empowerment and promoted my tournaments which I used to sponsor during my days as District Officer (DO),” Lusaka explained.
He added that Nyongesa was a dedicated, hardworking, polished and career journalist whose work will be remembered for long.
“My prayers and sympathies go to the family, friends, the media fraternity, and the people of Kamukuywa at large,” he stated.
Nyongesa was a very popular journalist from 1974 when he worked for the then Voice of Kenya (VOK) before it rebranded to KBC, where he produced several programs.
During International world radio day on February 12, 2021, the late veteran journalist urged upcoming journalists to restore professionalism in the media industry, in order to remain a liable source of news and entertainment to citizens.
Speaking to news reporters at his home in Kamukuywa, he explained that when he joined the industry, the government had influence in radio news and programs, unlike the freedom enjoyed by the media today.
He, however, cautioned media practitioners against misusing media freedom and urged them to adhere to media ethics and professionalism in their work.
“During our days, it was not easy to report real-time news due to challenges of communication between reporters and the studio but currently the situation has changed due to advanced technology with the internet and social media channels,” he explained.
