Veteran TV news anchor Catherine Kasavuli has passed on aged 60 at the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), KBC acting MD Samuel Maina has confirmed.
Kasavuli was battling cancer and had been admitted to the KNH private wing since October 26, 2022.
"Legendary broadcaster, Catherine Kasavuli, has died. She passed away on Thursday night at KNH where she was receiving treatment," said KBC in a statement on Friday morning.
Several leaders have since condoled with Kasavuli's family.
"A legend has rested. Go well Catherine, you lit our screens and warmed our hearts on so many nights. My condolences to your family and your colleagues," said Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris.
"I grew up admiring your prowess, beauty and skills when reading news. Used to imitate and later followed the same career path. You were indeed a great trailblazer," said Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuda.
Last month, the KNH blood donation unit had asked members of the public to donate blood for Kasavuli through a blood request form.
Kasavuli's family had also requested Kenyans for monetary funds to help her offset her bill at KNH.
Profile
Kasavuli’s journalism career boomed between the 1990s and 2015 when she left the screens.
She would later return as a prime-time newscaster on KBC in July 2021, where she hosted the Legend Edition.
Kasavuli began her career in 1980 as a radio continuity announcer at the Voice of Kenya, which was later renamed KBC.
Later, in 1985, she switched from radio to KBC television.
Two years later, she enrolled for professional training at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC).
She then joined KTN in March 1990, where she was the first news anchor in Kenya to broadcast live.
In 2007, she left KTN for Royal Media Services’ Citizen TV where she worked as an anchorwoman before taking up corporate affairs roles and temporarily retiring in 2015.
May the great Catherine Kasavuli rest in peace.
