Nairobi, Kenya – Tuesday, January 6, 2026 – The Kenyan media fraternity is once again in mourning following the death of KTN journalist Japheth Makau, barely weeks after the loss of senior videographer Idi Rashid.
The Standard Group confirmed Makau’s death on Tuesday. He worked as a correspondent and cameraman with KTN, based at the broadcaster’s Mombasa Road headquarters.
What Happened to Japheth Makau
Makau died at Machakos Level 5 Hospital, where doctors had admitted him for treatment. Family sources said he passed away shortly before 11:00 am, despite medical efforts to stabilise his condition.
Doctors had discharged him from the same hospital last Friday. However, his condition worsened, and relatives rushed him back on Saturday after he developed severe breathing difficulties.
A Career Dedicated to Public-Interest Journalism
Makau served for nearly 15 years as a broadcast journalist and cameraman. During his career, he specialised in agriculture and science reporting, producing in-depth stories on farming innovations, conservation, and food production.
He also worked on KTN’s “Next Frontier” programme, which took him across Africa and Europe to showcase Kenya’s progress in agriculture and technology.
Colleagues described him as outgoing, hardworking, and deeply committed to public-interest journalism.
Leaders, Colleagues Pay Tribute
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti led tributes to the late journalist, praising his integrity and courage.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues at the Standard Media Group, and the entire media fraternity,” Ndeti wrote.
“His voice, passion, and contribution to journalism will be deeply missed. May his family find strength and peace during this difficult time.”
Death Comes Weeks After Loss of Idi Rashid
Makau’s death comes just weeks after the passing of Idi Rashid, an award-winning senior videographer with the Standard Group, who died on Christmas Day while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital.
Rashid, who joined the organisation in 2013, spent over a decade shaping visual storytelling across television, print, and digital platforms. Reports indicated he fell ill after experiencing severe headaches, and his condition deteriorated rapidly.
