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.
Last month, Kasavuli had assured the public that she was doing well and getting ready for a second medical procedure.
"I am a strong woman. I know I will fight this. I am currently getting ready for a 2nd phase procedure," she said.
In addition, the former KTN news anchor shared lessons she has learnt in recent months, emphasizing the importance of family.
"Your family is all you got at the end of the day,make peace with them, try to be in good books with them even if you feel otherwise.
"Always depend on your Higher Power, pray for as much as you can, at least while you have the strength," she said.
Several leaders have since condoled with Kasavuli's family.
"Kasavuli inspired many young people to become broadcasters, in Kenya and beyond. At this tragic and sad moment of her demise, I join her family and friends in mourning a national heroine and professional icon," ICT CS Eliud Owalo said.
"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.
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.
The Standard Group condoles with her family and friends. May the great Catherine Kasavuli rest in peace.
