In his final interview, the late Leonard Mambo Mbotela revealed how an unforgettable incident at Panafric Hotel led to the creation of his iconic radio and TV show, Je, Huu ni Uungwana? (Is This Civility?).
Mbotela, a legendary Kenyan broadcaster, recalled how a moment of public misbehavior by one of his colleagues sparked the idea for a show that would shape discussions on social etiquette and morality for decades.
The Incident at Panafric Hotel
On that fateful Saturday, Mbotela and his colleagues decided to unwind at the Panafric Hotel, a well-known high-end establishment frequented by Kenya’s political elite.
As they settled in, they unintentionally found themselves seated behind a table occupied by top government officials, including the late Attorney General Charles Njonjo and Julius Gikonyo.
“We were preparing for the weekend, so we chose to go to Panafric Hotel with my colleagues to have some drinks. It is a very big hotel, and at the time, very important people in the government used to go there,” Mbotela recounted.
However, as they waited to be served, one of Mbotela’s friends began shouting, impatiently demanding service from the waiters. His loud behavior disrupted the restaurant’s calm atmosphere, drawing the attention of Njonjo, who turned and stared at the group in disbelief.
Realizing that they had caught the attention of one of Kenya’s most powerful figures, Mbotela immediately intervened to quiet his friend.
“As we were there, one of my friends started shouting, asking where the waiter was instead of patiently waiting, as is expected. We were supposed to stay there until the waiter came and asked us what we wanted.”
“The moment Njonjo turned to look at us, he was probably wondering who we were. I told my friend to keep quiet because this was a place where important people gathered, and we would be served eventually.”
How the Incident Inspired ‘Je, Huu ni Uungwana?’
Reflecting on the embarrassing behavior of his friend, Mbotela began questioning the levels of etiquette and respect in society.
It was this very moment that birthed the idea for a show dedicated to addressing proper social conduct, values, and responsibility.
“I decided to start the show that very day because I wondered—was it really wise to behave like that?”
Thus, Je, Huu ni Uungwana? was born—a show that would later become one of the most influential programs on Kenyan radio and television.
Mbotela’s Legacy in Kenyan Media
Leonard Mambo Mbotela passed away at the age of 85 on Friday, February 7, 2025, after a remarkable career spanning over six decades at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).
His contributions to sports commentary, journalism, and public discourse left an indelible mark on Kenya’s media landscape.
National Tributes
Following his passing, President William Ruto and other national leaders mourned Mbotela as:
✔️ A gifted broadcaster and journalist
✔️ A role model for generations of media professionals
✔️ A cultural icon who shaped Kenya’s national conversation
His show, Je, Huu ni Uungwana?, remains a timeless lesson on etiquette and good conduct, ensuring that his legacy lives on beyond his years.
