Former KBC sports editor and anchor Fred Nyongesa dies in Bungoma

Fred Nyongesa Ongalo, a veteran journalist and a former sports producer, editor and anchor who worked with KBC for more than 30 years, has died.

Nyongesa passed away on Sunday evening while being treated at a hospital in Bungoma County.

Announcing the seasoned journalist's demise, Otuma Ongalo, a former editor with The Standard, said Nyongesa reenergized the coverage of sports at the then VOK, which later coverted to KBC.

"As a family we are at a loss," said Ongalo.

Nyongesa is said to have been ailing and was undergoing treatment in Bungoma before he breathed his last. 

"It is a big blow to our family and society. Media too has lost one of its illustrious icons," said his nephew Anthony Nyongesa, a senior communication officer at NTSA, on his social media page. 

The fallen journalist has been mourned by a host of media personalities and his former colleagues who condoled with his family.

"He was a warm and a kind colleague. He loved sports and was easy to work with," said William Ogonda, a former KBC English Service colleague.

ODM Director of Communications Philip Etale remembered Nyongesa as his inspiration when he joined the KBC newsroom.

"He was a likeable editor. Very friendly and always jovial" remembered Etale.

"Pole to the family of the broadcaster, We will fondly remember him," said Justice Isaac Lenaola.

The late Nyongesa joined VoK in late 1970s and worked on the translation desk before he moved to news and later settled at the sports desk where he built a name for himself for decades.

The late scribe also contributed articles to leading newspapers in Kenya in the 70s and 80s including NMG's Taifa Leo and Kenya Leo published by the Kenya Times.

He proceeded to an early retirement from KBC more than 15 years ago to focus on farming at his Kamukuywa farm in Tongaren Sub-County, Bungoma.

His family is currently making plans for his funeral before announcing the burial date.