Governor Nyong'o Mourns Radio Africa Journalist Killed In Kisumu-Kakamega Highway Accident

Wasonga, a dedicated reporter and prominent figure liked by many in the media landscape, died in the accident at the Mamboleo flyover along the Kisumu-Kakamega highway.

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Jan 26, 2024 - 13:57 Updated: Jan 26, 2024 - 14:16
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Governor Nyong'o Mourns Radio Africa Journalist Killed In Kisumu-Kakamega Highway Accident
A photo collage of car wreck and The Star Journalist Dickens Wasonga. /FACEBOOK.ANYANG' NYONG'O

Kisumu Governor, Anyang' Nyong'o joined the county's media fraternity and that of the whole country in mourning Radio Africa Group's The Star newspaper journalist Dickens Wasonga who passed away in a grisly road accident on Friday, January 26.

Wasonga, a dedicated reporter and prominent figure liked by many in the media landscape, died in the accident at the Mamboleo flyover along the Kisumu-Kakamega highway.

The journalist's untimely death comes two months after he was elected as the Chairman of the Kisumu Journalists Network (KJN) in November 2023, with Governor Nyong'o revealing that the late Wasonga was just settling down on his new role.

Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o at his office during a courtesy call by the Agriculture department resource mobilisation committee on December 20, 2023. /ANYANG' NYONG'O

"I have learned with deep shock and sorrow about the demise of the long-serving journalist and chairman of Kisumu Journalist Network- Mr Dickens Wasonga.

"Mr Wasonga’s death in a ghastly road crash in Mamboleo this morning is devastating and a big blow to the Media fraternity in Kenya," Governor Nyong'o stated in his condolence message to the family of the deceased on his Facebook page.

He hailed the late Wasonga as a versatile and professional journalist who was known for writing investigative, balanced and informative stories.

Nyong'o termed it saddening that Wasonga's death came barely four months after Kisumu lost a Photojournalist, Tony Omondi. 

"On behalf of the County Government of Kisumu, I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Mr Wasonga and the Media fraternity in Kenya. May his soul rest in eternal peace," he added.

In the race for KJN chairman, Wasonga garnered 47 votes beating his closest contender Rushdie Oudia who accrued 24 votes.

In his acceptance speech, Wasonga outlined his vision for KJN, emphasising the importance of securing group insurance coverage for members and fostering growth and expansion within the network.

He was similarly mourned by the Kisumu Journalists Network (KJN) and Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga as well as journalists who knew him.

In a statement, KJN expressed deep sorrow and shock at the loss of their colleague and friend.

They lauded Wasonga's unwavering dedication to his craft, noting his integrity and professionalism as exemplary traits that inspired many within the journalism fraternity.

KJN extended sincere condolences to Wasonga's family, friends, and the entire journalism community as they grapple with his sudden departure.

“Dickens was a dedicated team player who demonstrated exceptional integrity and professionalism. Heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and the entire journalism fraternity mourning the loss of Dickens,” KJN said.

The deceased's body was ferried to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching & Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

Journalists covering a political press conference. /AGA KHAN UNIVERSITY

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