Veteran Journalist Catherine Kasavuli described as ‘Trailblazer and Font of Knowledge,’ dies aged 60

Veteran KBC news anchor Catherine Kasavuli has died aged 60.

Kasavuli died at the Kenyatta National Hospital on December 29, where she was undergoing treatment, according to her son Martin Kasavuli.

The legendary broadcaster had been battling cervical cancer and was admitted to the KNH private wing on October 26, 2022.

Tributes have been paid to Kasavuli, who straddled the industry like a colossus.

Kenya’s first lady Rachel Ruto tweeted:

“Catherine Kasavuli was a woman of great distinction and accomplishment. She consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, poise, and professionalism.”

Politician and former KBC journalist Naisula Lesuuda wrote:

“I grew up admiring your prowess, beauty, and skills when reading the news. Used to imitate and later followed the same career path.”

Journalist Victoria Rubadiri remembered the veteran broadcaster as a gem to the industry: “The epitome of grace and poise on our screens. What a gift to our industry.”

The last few months have been tough for the Kasavuli family, who have publicly appealed for financial support and blood donation.

Kasavauli started her journalism career in the 1980s as a radio continuity announcer at the Voice of Kenya, later renamed KBC. She took a long break from the screens between 1990 and 2015, returning to KBC in 2021 to host the Legends edition.

“I had the honour of sharing a studio with Kasavuli as a sports anchor at Citizen TV in my early years. She was a graceful senior colleague, a calm teacher, and a respectful mentor,” mourned Ferdinand Omondi, who now works for the BBC.

She has previously worked for KBC, KTN, Citizen TV, and the corporate world. Funeral arrangements for the late Kasavuli will be communicated later by the family.