Life and times of Najmbi Koikai: Kenya’s lioness who inspired many
The funeral programme for the late Mary Njambi Koikai, popularly known as Jahmby or Fyah Mummah, has been released.
The popular media personality passed away on June 3 at the age of 38 after a long battle with endometriosis.
The programme details a memorial service to be held at Nairobi Chapel on Ngong Road on Thursday 13 June.
The service was hosted by media personalities: Larry Asego and Jackie Nyaminde as masters of ceremony.
Following the memorial service, the burial will take place at Lang’ata Cemetery on Friday June 14, starting at 8am, with Larry Asego and Daniel Githenji Mwangi (Mbusii) as masters of ceremony.
The programme is expected to conclude at 1pm.
Njambi was hospitalised on May 30 after falling ill and sadly passed away a few days later.
Her Life and Legacy
Her life and legacy
Njambi was born on January 24, 1986, the cherished first child of Stella Wambui Kanogo and Daniel Koikai.
She was named after her grandmother, Mary Njambi.
From the beginning, she carried a legacy of strength and love.
Njambi’s brilliance was evident from an early age and she excelled at school.
She pursued higher education with relentless passion, earning degrees in Mass Communication from Daystar University and International Relations and French from USIU.
Her academic achievements were only the beginning of a remarkable journey.
After university, Njambi joined the media industry and quickly became a household name.
“Watching her deliver the news on television with such confidence filled our homes and hearts with joy,” her family recalls.
She later moved to radio, where her vibrant personality and infectious energy made her a popular figure.
Known for her shout-outs and song requests, she made a significant impact on the Kenyan airwaves.
Njambi’s creativity knew no bounds.
Her passion for music, especially reggae, was contagious.
She united people from all walks of life through her love of reggae, earning her the affectionate nickname Fyah Mummah Jahmby.
Her love of music brought people together and her beautiful voice was a constant backdrop in the lives of those who knew her.
Her vision went beyond entertainment.
In 2022, Njambi ran for Parliament for Dagoretti South. Her campaign, driven by a vision for a better community, justice and equality, rallied many to her cause.
Although she ran as an independent candidate and came fourth, her indomitable spirit and commitment to her community shone through.
She continued to work for the betterment of Dagoretti South, organising events and helping those in need.
A devout Christian, Njambi’s faith was the cornerstone of her life.
Her powerful prayers and joyful spirit filled her home with love and hope.
Gospel music uplifted her and those around her.
Njambi has battled endometriosis since the age of 13 and has undergone 21 surgeries to treat the condition.
Despite her struggles, she remained a beacon of strength and hope.
She became a global advocate for women living with endometriosis, organising campaigns and offering support and advice.
In 2018, Njambi underwent a life-changing surgery in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her fight against endometriosis didn’t end there; she continued to research, speak with others battling the disease, and organise events to raise awareness.
Her resilience and commitment were truly inspiring.
Njambi’s death on June 3, 2024 left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
“Njambi challenged us to be better, to dream bigger and to make our lives count. Her legacy as a loving and caring daughter, sister, niece, relative and friend will forever be etched in our hearts,” her family said.