NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 13 – Famous comedian Benson Wanjau popularly known as Mzee Ojwang’ Hatari died Sunday evening at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
An official from the hospital told Capital FM News that Mzee Ojwang died after suffering from pneumonia. He had been taken to the hospital earlier in the day for treatment.
“It is true that Mzee Ojwang was admitted to the hospital earlier in the day. He was suffering from pneumonia and sadly he passed on at about 7.30pm,” he stated.
The actor played key roles in local programmes like Vitimbi, Vioja Mahakami, Vituko and Kinyonga.
Earlier in the year, the comedian was admitted at the Loresho Hospital following a prolonged eye ailment.
In March, the Vitimbi crew led by Mama Kayai visited Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko at his office to solicit for aid to assist the ailing comedian.
His illness saw the government step in and pay for his medical bills with the Information Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i saying that the government would address the welfare of the Vitimbi crew.
Kenyans on social media have expressed their condolences for the icon whom they described as an inspiration.
‘I watched Mzee Ojwang on black and White TV, like a religion he united families across the Nation many times as we watched Vitimbi.’
Very sad day for Kenya’s comedy…RIP #MzeeOjwang. #Icelebrateyou
Patrick Tush A journey completed, rest well.
Dickens Musaremo RIP mzee you r a hero.ur name has,is,WL b a good odour in our households.r.I p
-capitalfm.co.ke