A motion tabled before the Nairobi County Assembly is seeking to rename Juja Road after the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, in tribute to the veteran journalist's lifelong service to the nation.
The motion, moved by Kiamaiko Ward MCA Joseph Ndung’u, calls on the County Executive to initiate the process of renaming the road, citing constitutional provisions which place matters related to county roads under devolved functions.
"Article 186 (1) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, and Paragraph 5 of the Fourth Schedule of the same Constitution provide for transport including County roads, street lighting, public road transport traffic, and parking as a devolved county function," the motion read.
Ndung’u went on to highlight Kenya’s long-standing tradition of honoring national figures by naming public spaces after them.
“The country has since independence named and renamed roads and other public facilities in honor of heroes and heroines who have contributed immensely in the society as a way of honoring them," the motion continued.
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In his motion, Ndung'u remembered Mbotela's decades-long career as a broadcaster, and the cultural impact of his work.
"Appreciating the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, who was a distinguished Kenyan journalist, broadcaster, and patriot and who made indelible contributions to the nation through his dedicated service and unwavering commitment to public communication.
"Recognizing his iconic radio and television programs, 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," the motion added.
Ndung'u also recalled Mbotela’s critical role during the 1982 attempted coup, where he bravely maintained broadcasts aimed at calming the nation.
"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," the motion further read.
Ndung’u noted that naming a prominent road after Mbotela would ensure that future generations remember and celebrate his legacy.
"Appreciating that by renaming of a prominent road in Nairobi would serve as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and ensure that his contributions are remembered and celebrated by future generations.
"Cognizant that Juja Road, being a major artery in Nairobi, offers a significant opportunity to publicly recognize and honor 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 honor of the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela, EGH, in recognition of his exceptional service to the Republic of Kenya," the motion concluded.
Mbotela died on February 7, 2025; he was best known for his iconic radio show Je, Huu Ni Uungwana? which aired for decades.
Beyond Je Huu ni Ungwana?, he was also known for his work as a newsreader and sports commentator.
Notably, he coined the popular phrase Kadenge na mpira during football commentaries, which became synonymous with Kenyan football.
A significant moment in Mbotela's career occurred during the attempted coup in Kenya on August 1, 1982.
He was captured by rebels and forced at gunpoint to announce on live television that the government had been overthrown.
After the coup was suppressed, he was compelled to inform the nation that the government had regained control.
Mbotela retired in 2022, marking 58 years of service in the media industry.
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