Mzee Ojwang laid to rest in Nairobi

Veteran comedian and star Vitimbi actor, Benson Wanjau Karira, better known as Mzee Ojwang Hatari was laid to rest on Wednesday afternoon at Lang’ata Cemetery.

Ojwang’s final journey started in the morning at Umash Funeral Home where his body was viewed by family and close friends.

The late actor’s body was later driven to the Kenya National Theatre where film stars celebrated his life with song and dance.

The actors and actresses drawn from different parts of the country converged in unity to give their colleague a decent send-off.

The hearse carrying Ojwang’s body drove through Nairobi’s Central Business District to Nyayo National Stadium where the final requiem service was held with different renowned personalities attending the event.

Sports, Arts and Culture Cabinet Secretary Dr Hassan Wario eulogised Ojwang’ as the father of comedy whom everybody loved watching on the screens.

He added that Vitimbi would not have been complete without featuring Mzee Ojwang, whom he termed an art genius.

“The history of art in the country would not have been well told without Vitimbi and Vitimbi itself would not have been complete without Mzee Ojwang’,” said Dr Wario.

President Uhuru Kenyatta sent his message of condolence to Wanjau’s family through the Sports, Arts and Culture C.S.

The president paid tribute to the fallen film star, terming him a TV bigwig who effortlessly taught throughout his acting career.

“Ojwang’ taught without sounding preachy and entertained without becoming trivial. He devoted his life to the development of his legendary character. He and his colleagues memorably demonstrated that the finest hearts of entertainment does not have to shed its social problems,” read the President’s speech in part.

Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko also shared the sentiments put across by Dr Wario and the president.

Other public figures who graced Ojwang’s funeral service include: comedian Churchill, Vitimbi crew, Walter Mong’are among other top actors and actresses.

Mzee Ojwang’s body was later taken to Lang’ata Cemetery for a final send-off where fans turned out in hundreds to bid farewell to the legendary actor.

Benson Wanjau died aged 78 after succumbing to pneumonia on July 12 at Kenyatta National Hospital.

He is survived by his wife, Augustus Wanjiru Wanjau, two children: Patricia Njeri and Michael Karira, and two grandchildren: Benson Wanjau and Philip Mwaura.