The Kenyan acting community is in mourning following the death of veteran actress Grace Wangoi Mburu, popularly known to audiences as ‘Mama Bob’ from the long-running Citizen TV family drama, Machachari. Her death on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, was confirmed by her sister, Wanjiku Mburu, who played the character ‘Mama Baha’ in the same show.

In a statement to TUKO.co.ke on Wednesday, a close family member disclosed that Mburu died in a road accident in South Africa. At the time of reporting, further details regarding the specific date and circumstances of the accident remain unconfirmed by official authorities. The family has indicated that efforts are underway to repatriate her body to Kenya for funeral rites.

The announcement of her passing has sent a wave of grief across the nation, with thousands of Kenyans taking to social media to pay tribute to an actress who became a familiar face in their homes for over a decade. Many fans and fellow actors expressed shock, particularly upon learning that Grace Mburu and Wanjiku Mburu were biological sisters, a fact not widely known to the public. This revelation has added a poignant layer to the collective sense of loss, highlighting the deep personal and professional bond the two shared on and off the screen.

A Pillar of a Landmark Show

Machachari, which premiered in 2010 and ran for nearly a decade, was a landmark production in Kenyan television. The show was celebrated for its portrayal of the lives of children and families from varying socio-economic backgrounds, juxtaposing the experiences of those in affluent neighbourhoods with those in more modest settlements. It gained a cult-like following and was praised for its relatable characters and its exploration of themes like friendship, family, and social tolerance.

In this acclaimed series, Grace Mburu’s character, Mama Bob, was a calm and nurturing mother figure. Her performances were consistently described as bringing warmth, humour, and a sense of authenticity to the screen, making her a beloved figure for a generation of viewers who grew up watching the show.

Tributes from Colleagues and Fans

The news has elicited heartfelt tributes from former cast members and industry colleagues. Actor Malik Lemmy, who played ‘Govi’ in the series, expressed his shock and offered his condolences, stating, “Oh God. This really shocked me. I am so sorry, may Gracie, mama Bob rest in eternal peace.”

Fans have flooded social media platforms with messages of condolence, many sharing personal memories of watching the show. One fan wrote, “Rest in peace. Mama Bob. Thanks for making my childhood memories sweet,” encapsulating a widely shared sentiment. The outpouring reflects the significant cultural impact of Machachari and the enduring affection for its cast. Mburu was lauded by colleagues and viewers for her professionalism, kindness, and the motherly advice she offered on set.

As the nation mourns her loss, Grace Wangoi Mburu’s legacy is remembered through her contribution to a golden era of Kenyan television drama. Her role as Mama Bob will remain etched in the memories of countless Kenyans who found joy, laughter, and comfort in her performances. Details regarding her memorial and burial service are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days. FURTHER INVESTIGATION REQUIRED.