The Kenyan acting community has lost one of its most recognizable faces. Bilal Wanjau, the versatile actor who became a household name, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi.

His death, confirmed by fellow actress Sandra Dacha and a family spokesperson, was a direct result of a long battle with type 2 diabetes that led to fatal complications. This loss is not just a headline; it's a painful reminder of the silent health battles many Kenyans face daily, cutting short a career that brought laughter and drama to millions.

According to a family spokesperson, Wanjau's final days began on Sunday in Machakos when he experienced severe pain in his leg—a complication stemming from a wound exacerbated by his diabetic condition. He was rushed to KNH on Monday. "We brought him to the hospital on Monday, and they ran tests till Wednesday," the spokesperson noted. "The doctors were about to begin treatment before he passed on later in the night."

A Career That Defined a Generation

For many Kenyans, Bilal Wanjau was more than an actor; he was a part of their lives. His role in the popular high school drama "Tahidi High" made him a familiar face in homes across the nation. His talent wasn't confined to one character. He showcased remarkable range in numerous productions, including:

• Jela 5 Star: His performance as a prison guard earned him a Kalasha Award for Best Performance in a Comedy in 2017.
• Njoro wa Uba: A role that further cemented his status as a gifted comedian.
• Utahama Lini?: He was the memorable face of the national lottery campaign.

The son of Kenyan Olympic boxing medalist Ibrahim “Surf” Bilal, Wanjau carved his own legacy, not in the ring, but on the screen, becoming a champion of the arts.

The Unseen Battle With Diabetes

Wanjau's passing casts a harsh spotlight on the growing challenge of non-communicable diseases in Kenya. Diabetes affects an estimated 3-4.5% of the adult population, a figure that represents millions of families grappling with the condition. The disease is a significant economic burden, costing the nation billions of shillings annually in treatment and lost productivity. Health experts have repeatedly warned that low public awareness often leads to delayed diagnosis and severe complications, much like the ones Wanjau faced.

As tributes pour in from the creative community, it is clear that Bilal Wanjau's influence will endure. His burial is scheduled for Friday, December 5, 2025, in his rural home in Machakos. His death is a profound loss, leaving a void in the industry and a powerful, urgent message about public health that resonates far beyond the stage.