Veteran Journalist Mutegi Njau’s Legacy of Mentorship and Integrity Celebrated
Tharaka Nithi County governor Muthomi Njuki condoling the family of the late Mutegi Njau.
By Mwenda Njeru
Worth Noting:
- In 1981, Njau joined Nation Media Group, writing for the media house until 1984. He then moved to the pioneering Weekly Review Magazine, founded by Hilary Ngweno.
- He rejoined Nation Media Group in 1986, specializing in investigative and political reporting. His dedication and skill earned him a promotion to News Editor of the Daily Nation in 1988, and later to Investigative Editor in 1992, where he spearheaded the transition to in-depth investigations and news features.
Veteran journalist Mutegi Njau whose career spanned over four decades, was celebrated as a dedicated mentor and a paragon of journalistic integrity during his burial service in Chuka, Tharaka-Nithi County. Friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honor a man whose influence extended far beyond his own impressive career.
Born on December 22, 1949, Mutegi Njau began his journalism career in 1979 at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), where he made his mark as a scriptwriter and producer. His work on the weekly current affairs program Dunia Wiki Hii, and as a co-host of the popular weekly press conference set the stage for a distinguished career.
In 1981, Njau joined Nation Media Group, writing for the media house until 1984. He then moved to the pioneering Weekly Review Magazine, founded by Hilary Ngweno.
He rejoined Nation Media Group in 1986, specializing in investigative and political reporting. His dedication and skill earned him a promotion to News Editor of the Daily Nation in 1988, and later to Investigative Editor in 1992, where he spearheaded the transition to in-depth investigations and news features.
Njau played a crucial role in Nation’s expansion into electronic media in 1999, becoming the News Manager for both NTV and Nation FM. He returned to his post as Investigative Editor in 2003, continuing to set high standards in journalism until his retirement in 2005. Even in retirement, Njau’s passion for journalism led him to Royal Media Services, where he helped establish and lead The Leader newspaper.
Throughout his career, Njau was known for his mentorship and his commitment to journalistic excellence. Many young journalists benefited from his guidance and training, remembering him as a tough but caring mentor.
“He had a lot of prowess in journalism. He was instrumental in shaping the careers of many young journalists, and he has impacted many of the best journalists you see in the media industry today,” said Lucy Kaburia, who spoke on behalf of the media.
Stephen Letoo, Senior Political Reporter at Citizen TV, reflected on Njau’s influence during his early career. “I interacted with Mutegi Njau at a very young stage of my career when I was an intern at Citizen TV. He was instrumental in training and mentoring us, and we are grateful to have passed through his hands.”
Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki praised Njau’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life, highlighting his honesty and professionalism. “He was fearless. He would say the truth without caring who was involved and how powerful they might be. He has left a good legacy in journalism in Kenya,” Governor Njuki said.
Former Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu shared her personal experiences with Njau.
“When I was appointed Nairobi Governor, the person I’d go to for consultation on matters of communication was Mutegi Njau. He encouraged and advised me to stand for the truth.”
Other dignitaries, including former Fisheries and Blue Economy PS Prof. Micheni Ntiba and former Chuka University VC Prof. Erastus Njoka, were also present to pay their respects.
Mutegi Njau passed away on June 27, 2024, after a short illness. He was laid to rest at his Ndagani home in Chuka, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and mentorship that will continue to inspire future generations of journalists.
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER May 30-31, 2026
- May 29, 2026 The Mt Kenya Times ePAPER
- Communities secure historic land rights as Wahome issues 60 title deeds across 369,000 acres in Samburu
- Ahadi Kenya Trust closes chapter on jigger campaign with historic archive
- Antony Gitonga Foundation to hold free medical camp in Othaya
About the Author
