Loading News Article...
We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
Beyond the airwaves, the Mayienga FM chief was a quiet dream-maker. Odhiambo Brian Otieno recounts the brunch meeting that led to a career breakthrough in Tanzania.

For the thousands of listeners who tuned into Mayienga FM, Festus Amimo was the commanding voice of the morning. But for Odhiambo Brian Otieno, the late broadcaster was the difference between unemployment and a life-changing breakthrough.
As the media fraternity reels from Amimo’s sudden death on Sunday, December 7, a moving tribute has emerged detailing how the KBC veteran went beyond the call of duty to secure a lucrative placement for a struggling young Kenyan in the gold prospecting sector.
The relationship began professionally, with Odhiambo attending monthly interviews at the KBC-owned station. However, Amimo saw potential beyond the studio microphone. In a gesture that defies the typical boss-employee dynamic, Amimo invited Odhiambo to his office before taking him for brunch at the historic Norfolk Hotel.
It was here that Amimo, known affectionately as Wuod Awasi, began to mentor the younger man. According to Odhiambo, the broadcaster was struck by his eloquence and urged him to aim higher.
"Wuod Japuonj, think of shifting lanes and coming into the leadership ranks," Amimo reportedly told him. "You've supported these people for a long time, take a shot, you can do it."
Amimo’s mentorship was not limited to political advice; it was practical and economic. Recognizing Odhiambo's "dry spell"—a Kenyan euphemism for a period of financial hardship—Amimo leveraged his networks to put food on his mentee's table.
Odhiambo recounted a pivotal meeting at Hotel Boulevard where Amimo introduced him to a team from a gold prospecting company. The firm was in urgent need of a communication consultant.
"Amimo and [a colleague] combined efforts and vouched for me to get the job," Odhiambo revealed. The intervention was immediate and impactful. Odhiambo was tasked with leading a team to Singida, Tanzania, for a week-long assignment.
Amimo’s death has drawn tributes from the highest echelons of government, including Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo and Siaya Governor James Orengo, who described the late journalist as a "calm, collected, and gifted soul."
Yet, it is personal testimonies like Odhiambo’s that paint the truest picture of the man. While the official reports confirm his body was transferred from Nairobi Funeral Home to Montezuma Funeral Home, the real story lies in the careers he quietly built behind the scenes.
"He didn't just give me a platform on radio; he introduced me to money sources," Odhiambo noted, capturing the essence of a mentor who understood that in Kenya, true leadership is about empowering others to earn a living.
Keep the conversation in one place—threads here stay linked to the story and in the forums.
Other hot threads
E-sports and Gaming Community in Kenya
Active 6 months ago
Popular Recreational Activities Across Counties
Active 6 months ago
The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture (AgriTech)
Active 6 months ago
Investing in Youth Sports Development Programs
Active 6 months ago