Family Calls For Investigation Into Mysterious Death Of Kisumu Journalist

The family of Fofana Bangali, a Kisumu-based journalist with Idhaa Ya Radio Lake Victoria, is appealing to investigative agencies to probe the circumstances surrounding his sudden death.

Bangali, who served as the Managing Director of Radio Lake Victoria, was found lifeless in his home on Friday, March 28.

According to his relatives, there had been no signs of illness or distress leading up to his death.

The family grew concerned after not hearing from him for several days, prompting them to visit his home.

Upon speaking with the landlord, they discovered that his house was locked from the inside, which raised further alarm.

“The landlord helped us access Fofana’s house through the window. We broke the window and found him lying on his bed.

He wasn’t sick, and when we tried to wake him, there was no response,” one family member shared.

“We had to call the police to help us break down the door, as it was locked from the inside.”

Another family member emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, urging authorities to uncover the truth behind his death.

“It is now the police’s responsibility to determine what happened and inform us. We will lay him to rest once the investigation is complete,” they added.

Following the news of his death, condolences poured in from across Kenya.

On social media, Ogada Willis mourned the loss, pointing out the devastating trend of journalist deaths in 2025.

“Eish! 2025 has brought us unimaginable heartbreak.

In just three short months, we’ve lost five brilliant journalists to the silent world. Rest in peace, Fofana Bangali.

The Rhumba and media fraternity is drowning in sorrow, mourning deeply for this irreplaceable loss,” Ogada expressed.

Radio Lake Victoria also shared a heartfelt tribute: “As Radio Lake Victoria family, we are deeply saddened by the untimely death of one of our long-serving staff members, Mr. Fofana Bangali. Please keep us in your prayers.”

Bangali, widely recognized in Kisumu for his passion for Rhumba music and the Lingala language, was a beloved figure in the local media scene.

His untimely death follows a series of journalist deaths in 2025, including Njoroge Mwaura, Leonard Mambo Mbotela, Fredrick Parsayo, Rasna Warah, and Nick Mudimba.

As investigations continue, his family and colleagues await clarity on the cause of his passing while mourning the loss of a dedicated and cherished journalist.

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