Actor Bilal Wanjau laid to rest in emotional Machakos burial
By Steve Ireri, December 5, 2025Revered actor Bilal Wanjau was laid to rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, in an emotional burial at his rural home in Machakos.
The ceremony, though attended by only a handful of mourners, was deeply moving, with close friends and colleagues visibly overcome with grief.
Photos shared by Nick Kwach on Instagram showed a small gathering of mourners standing on a dusty farm, quietly paying their respects.
Wanjau’s grave had been prepared simply, adorned with a handful of flowers. Despite the modest setting, the burial was deeply emotional, with family members openly breaking down in tears while others clung to one another, particularly as Bilal’s casket was gently lowered into the grave.
A video shared on TikTok captured mourners singing next to the grave as local youths carefully heaped soil onto the shallow plot.
Colleagues from the entertainment industry, where Wanjau had built his career, stood by in solemn silence, watching the proceedings with heavy hearts.
Among the few attendees were media personality Nick Kwach and Wanjau’s co-actor, actress Aicy Stevens, both of whom appeared visibly emotional as they bade farewell.
Untimely passing
Wanjau passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital for complications related to diabetes.
Actress Sandra Dacha, who shared the news of his passing, described it as untimely and expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of Kenya’s most talented actors.
“It is with profound sorrow that I announce the untimely passing of my colleague Bilal Wanjau this early morning due to diabetes complications,” Sandra announced.
She noted that burial arrangements had been swiftly made to lay him to rest the following day.
“Bilal was a GREAT, TALENTED ACTOR! We have lost one of the BEST in the industry,” she stated. The burial date is set for Friday (tomorrow), 5/12/2025, at his rural home in Machakos. Kindly keep the family in your prayers. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” she added.
Vibrant career
Bilal Wanjau had a vibrant career in Kenyan film and theatre. He was best known for his role in Tahidi High and appeared in several other popular productions, including Bazenga, The Runaway, Wimped, Lies That Bind, and the prison drama Jela 5 Star.
He also gained acclaim for his portrayal of the prison guard Kasoro Bin Kasoro, earning respect for his versatility, professionalism, and strong on-screen presence.
Colleagues and fans remember Wanjau as a dedicated artiste passionate about his craft, capable of taking on a wide range of roles from youthful dramas to crime and adult-themed stories.