Kenyan reggae promoter Mary ‘Jahmby’ Koikai passes away

Koikai succumbed to endometriosis, a condition she had been battling for nearly 20 years. She was undergoing treatment at The Nairobi Hospital where she passed away on 3 June.

On 31 May, the former Sauti Sol manager had appealed for a blood donation but her condition later deteriorated.

“She was in the HDU but she is now in the ICU,” Koikai’s associate, DJ Double Trouble, said on Monday. “The blood donation was a success, people came through but the problem is that she is in critical condition. Now we are praying she feels better.”

Following the tragic news, many Kenyans took to social media to mourn Koikai, terming her a warrior and a fighter for bravely documenting her struggles with the disease. Many of her friends in politics, media and entertainment also eulogised her.

Former Sauti Sol band member Fancy Fingers said: “Sad day. Forever in our hearts. @jahmbykoikai was our first-ever manager. Played a big part in our early stages as a band. The industry has lost a gem. The country has lost a warrior. The heavens have gained an angel. Rest in Power. Your spirit lives on forever!”

Radio presenter Maina Kageni who wrote: “I still have vivid memories when we were in Dubai together. My dear, you lived life to the fullest... a true definition of the strength of a Woman! Thank you for everything Njambi Koikai! Rest well rasta queen.”

Nominated senator Gloria Orwoba, who had worked with Koikai on women’s health advocacy, said: “My heart is broken. It is not fair. We lost Jahmby Koikai last night. Our warrior is gone.”

Orange Democratic Movement director of communications Philip Etale wrote: “I am gutted beyond expression. Fare thee well my friend, sister and just best friend. That beautiful smile, the phone calls we had talking about many things including our days at KBC back in the day, your mastery of the Maragoli language and the jolly moments you shared with those you knew. You had a big family, just a big one… go well my friend.”

Filmmaker Abel Mutua said: “Show me a more fierce fighter. You gave it everything, empress. Rest well.”

Media personality Ciru Muriuki, who also works to sensitise women about endometriosis, said: “We’re all still trying to process this. Thank you for the years of friendship. Thank you for your fire. You fought so hard, my empress. So hard. Rest now @jahmbykoikai. You are loved eternally.”

Koikai’s fight against endometriosis turned her into a passionate champion for women’s health. On social media, she fearlessly documented her journey, sharing the challenges, treatments and the emotional impact of living with the chronic illness. She advocated for early diagnosis, proper medical treatment, increased research and more resources for endometriosis sufferers.