Jeff Koinange marks 60 years since father’s death with heartfelt tribute

Veteran journalist Jeff Koinange has paid tribute to his late father, Frederick Mbiyu Koinange, marking 60 years since his passing with a heartfelt message shared on social media.

Taking to his official X account on Sunday, March 8, 2026, Jeff remembered his father with warm words, reflecting on the decades that have passed since his death.

“A SPECIAL day for a SPECIAL man… It’s been 60 years since you left us to be with the Lord… Keep resting with the angels, Frederick Mbiyu Koinange… Until we meet again!” he wrote.

The commemorations were not limited to the online tribute. Jeff and members of his family also visited his father’s burial site, where they laid flowers in his honour and spent time remembering his life and legacy.

Frederick Mbiyu Koinange was a Kenyan businessman and public figure from the prominent Koinange family. He was the son of Senior Chief Koinange wa Mbiyu and the brother of Mbiyu Koinange, who later served as a powerful minister in the government of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta.

Frederick made history as one of the first Africans to own and operate a petrol station and car dealership in Nairobi, breaking barriers in a sector dominated by foreigners during Kenya’s early independence years. His ventures and determination inspired a generation of African entrepreneurs.

Despite his success, Frederick’s life was cut short when he passed away in 1966, leaving behind a young family. Jeff Koinange was only a baby at the time of his father’s death.

Over the years, Jeff has occasionally spoken about the profound effect losing his father so early had on his life. In past interviews, the celebrated broadcaster has said that growing up without his father shaped many aspects of his journey while also strengthening his admiration for the legacy his father left behind.

Although Jeff did not have the opportunity to know his father personally, he has often expressed pride in carrying forward the Koinange family name and honouring the achievements of those who came before him.

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