Former Nation Media Group Editor and veteran journalist, Washington Akumu, has died after suffering a heart attack on Monday, April 22.
His death followed a period of battling illness, with reports indicating that he was undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.
His family and friends disclosed that he died in hospital while receiving treatment.
Washington Akumu, served as a business journalist and editor at the Nation Media Group from June 2013 to April 2014.
Following news of his death, colleagues and friends of the late journalist took to their social media accounts, expressing their heartfelt condolences.
Notable figures among those who eulogized the veteran journalist include Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga and Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai and MCSK CEO Ezekiel Mutua.
Friends eulogize the late journalist
Governor Gladys Wanga extended her sympathies to Washington Akumu’s family and friends, acknowledging his courageous battle with illness.
She emphasized the impact he had on those around him and offered thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Former NMG editor Washington Akumu who passed on after a courageous battle with illness,”
“During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and colleagues as they grieve his loss. May this remarkable Son of Homa Bay find peace in the afterlife.” said the Governor.
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Similarly, Robert Alai paid tribute to Washington Akumu, highlighting his transition from the newsroom to the PR world and the doors he opened for others in the media and corporate spheres.
“The media fraternity has lost another gem. Washington Akumu was an accomplished journalist, a wordsmith par excellent who exhibited enviable superlative writing skills that placed him above many of his peers,”
On his part, the CEO of Music Copyright Society said the media industry had lost a dependable professional.
“Besides, he was a personable man who was loved by many. Kenyan media and Public Relations industry have lost a pillar. Rest well Wash. Rest well,” said Ezekiel Mutua.
Akumu’s Career
Washington Akumu’s journey was marked by dedication and professionalism, evident in his work and the relationships he built.
His LinkedIn profile reflects his tenure at the Nation Media Group where he served as Senior Editor for The East African showcasing his expertise and commitment to journalism.
After leaving Nation Media Group in 2014, Akumu went on to join Redhouse Group, where he worked as the Group Account Director.
In 2016, he joined Media Edge Public Relations as Managing Director, a position he served until his untimely demise.
Over the course of his 20-year career, he has been instrumental in crafting narratives that resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impact.
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His commitment to excellence and passion for effective communication strategies have been evident in his work, as he has consistently delivered stories that engage and inform.
As the industry mourns the loss of a talented journalist, Washington Akumu’s memory lives on through the stories he told and the lives he touched.
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