KTN journalist Japheth Makau was laid to rest in a sorrowful and emotionally charged ceremony at his rural home in Malili, Kilome Sub-County, Makueni County, as grief engulfed the media fraternity, family members, and residents who turned out in large numbers to bid him farewell.
The burial brought together colleagues from Machakos and Makueni counties, representatives of his employer, the Standard Group, as well as officials from the Makueni and Machakos county governments, reflecting the wide reach and impact of Makau’s work both in journalism and within the community.
Makau was eulogized as a dedicated, humble, and passionate journalist who committed his life to telling stories that mattered to ordinary Kenyans. Fellow journalists described him as a dependable professional who worked tirelessly, often under difficult conditions, to inform the public with accuracy and integrity.
Representatives from the Standard Group paid glowing tributes, remembering Makau as a hardworking team player whose love for journalism was evident in his commitment to duty and respect for colleagues. They noted that his death is a huge loss not only to KTN but to the entire media industry.
Family members struggled to come to terms with his untimely death, describing him as a loving son, brother, and friend whose guidance and support anchored many. Emotions ran high as tributes highlighted his strong family values and deep connection to his roots in Kilome.
As the final rites were conducted, the sombre mood was punctuated by calls for unity and greater support within the media fraternity, with many urging journalists to look out for one another while honouring the legacy left behind by Makau.
His burial marked a painful goodbye to a journalist whose voice and storytelling touched many lives, leaving behind a legacy of service, professionalism, and dedication to the truth.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
