Twenty-three years have passed since the world changed for Esther Mwende Macharia. The celebrated Radio Jambo presenter recently took to social media to share a deeply personal milestone.
She remembered her mother, Tabitha Mumbua Macharia, on the anniversary of her death.
For Mwende, the pain of the loss remains vivid. She described the date of her mother's passing as the saddest day of her life. Despite the decades that have gone by, the bond between the radio queen and her late mother remains a central part of her identity.
The Birth of a Broadcaster
Mwende is known across Kenya for her vibrant voice and engaging radio presence. However, she revealed that her mother was the very first person to recognize her talent. Tabitha was not just a parent; she was Mwende's first audience.
"She used to sit down and listen as I recited poems and bible verses to her that she had couched me."
A Legacy of Joy and Faith
The tribute painted a picture of a woman who was "full of love" and possessed a spirit that could light up a room. Mwende recalled her mother’s "kicheko kubwa sana," a laugh even bigger than her own.
Tabitha was a pillar of strength for her two children—Mwende and her younger brother. She affectionately called Mwende "my dorra." The family celebrated every holiday together, with Mwende fondly remembering being taken to Makadara during Eid celebrations.
Beyond the laughter, faith was the cornerstone of their home. Tabitha introduced her daughter to her spiritual path and taught her the power of prayer.
“She introduced me to Christ, she helped me know how to read the word and pray, ndio maana maombi huwa tunapiga na shetani hapa huwa hatoboi.”
Lessons in Love
The Radio Jambo host also shared the moral lessons that continue to guide her life. Her mother taught her to love people "genuinely" and to stand up for her own. 
Tabitha’s heart was described as a "jewel," pure and capable of loving without prejudice.
"Her heart was a jewel, her heart was pure,she loved so hard, taught me how to love people genuinely and fight for your own. She taught me how to love without prejudice, being good to people, love like Christ."
As Mwende continues to dominate the airwaves, she carries these lessons with her. The woman who once coached her on poems is no longer here to listen to her radio shows, but her influence remains. 
Mwende ended her tribute with a simple, heartbreaking promise: "I will always love you."
