Kenya is mourning the death of veteran broadcaster Sammy Lui Wang’ondu, a voice that once defined the sound of national pride and ceremony.

His son, Chris Wang’ondu, confirmed the death on Thursday afternoon, 23 October, though the family has not yet disclosed the cause. Early reports suggest that Lui died at his home in Subukia, Nakuru County.

Lui’s baritone voice was a familiar sound to generations of Kenyans. During his years behind the microphone, he became one of the most recognisable figures in public broadcasting, serving both as a news anchor and later as Master of Ceremonies for State functions.

“He had one of those commanding voices that carried the weight of the moment,” said a former KBC colleague. “When he spoke, the entire nation listened.”

His career began at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) in its early days, when it was still known as the Voice of Kenya (VoK). He later joined KTN, where he spent several years before moving on to the Office of the President, serving as Director of State Events.

It was there that Lui cemented his legacy — his voice guiding Kenyans through national holidays, parades, and presidential ceremonies, first under Daniel arap Moi and later during Mwai Kibaki’s presidency.

Beyond the microphone, many Kenyans came to know Lui as the father of Nick Wang’ondu, who represented Kenya in the Big Brother Africa reality show in 2011.

Following news of his passing, tributes flooded social media, celebrating the broadcaster’s professionalism and grace.

“I remember him during national holidays. He was so polished in his delivery. May he rest in eternal peace,” one user wrote on X.

Another added: “One of the very best in social event MCs. Great voice indeed. May his soul rest in peace.”

In his later years, Lui’s name made headlines again — this time under less flattering circumstances. In November 2024, he was evicted from his Woodley Estate home, where he had lived for more than five decades. The Nairobi County Government said the eviction was part of an urban renewal project in partnership with Africa Reit Ltd.

Despite the challenges he faced late in life, many will remember Sammy Lui not for controversy, but for the dignity, discipline, and authority he brought to Kenya’s airwaves. His voice, once the soundtrack to national life, now belongs to history.