Kenya's media fraternity is mourning the sudden passing of veteran broadcast journalist Edmond Salasya, popularly known to his radio fans as Edmonds Selassia.
He died after suffering a lung collapse. His colleagues announced his death on Thursday, 10 September 2026.
Salasya was a well-known voice on KBC Radio Taifa and the KBC Kiswahili Service. Listeners across the nation had heard him on air just hours before his passing.
“Your voice, your presence and the memories you created with us will forever remain in our hearts.”
News of his death brought grief to newsrooms and studios across the country. Mathias Momanyi described Salasya as both a colleague and a brother. He shared his sorrow in a tribute online.
Former Radio Taifa colleague Bonnie Musambi expressed shock at the loss. The two shared a deep friendship and a passion for rhumba music. Musambi noted that they affectionately called each other "Manze Osuofia." He promised to stand with Salasya’s family to ensure a fitting send-off.
“My former colleague at Radio Taifa and such a dear friend. We always called each other “Manze Osuofia.” My fellow rhumba enthusiast.”
Former co-host Caroline Mramba also shared her grief online. She described her heavy heart after learning of his passing.
“My Heart is Heavy.....Sad...lack the right words to put it... My Personal Person...&Former Co-Host Edmonds Selassia is No More...”
Other former colleagues posted messages of disbelief on social media. Geoffrey Kwatemba wrote: “This life!!! So sad, Rest easy my brother, former colleague (Omwana wanga oundi, Omutangasachi wa KBC Radio Taifa) Edmonds Selassia.”
Enock Bosire recalled arriving at work on Thursday morning to find grief-stricken colleagues. He remembered Salasya for his distinctive Lingala greetings to listeners.
A Brief History of a National Broadcaster
Edmond Salasya built a career as a prominent Kenyan broadcast journalist. He served at the state broadcaster, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). He anchored Swahili-language broadcasts that gained a wide national audience with his drive show ‘Tafrija za Kutwa.”
Salasya connected with millions through Radio Taifa’s national network.
Salasya remained active on air right up to his sudden death. Radio Taifa listeners heard him broadcasting between 8:00 pm and midnight on the night before he passed away.
Colleague Sempai Salasya recalled speaking with him at the KBC Mess on Tuesday before his death. He described the veteran journalist as legendary.
Fans also expressed disbelief on social media. One listener, Mary Nyambu, noted that she had tuned into his show live from Namanga shortly before hearing the tragic news.
