Beloved Kenyan actress Wanjiku Mburu, fondly remembered as Mama Baha from the hit TV show Machachari, is mourning the loss of her sister Gracie Mburu, who also starred in the popular Citizen TV drama as Mama Bob.
The actress broke the heartbreaking news on social media, posting a moving tribute that stirred deep emotions among fans and fellow cast members.
Wanjiku shared several photos capturing her bond with her sister, both in character on set and during joyful moments away from the cameras.
Alongside the touching images, she wrote simply, “And then? My dear sister, rest easy.”
The brevity of her message carried a weight of grief, reflecting the raw pain of losing not only a sister but a creative partner and close friend.
Gracie Mburu, who played the warm and witty Mama Bob, was a cherished part of Machachari’s tight-knit on-screen community, a mother figure who embodied love, resilience, and humour.
Few viewers knew that the chemistry between Mama Baha and Mama Bob ran deeper than their roles; the two were real-life sisters bound by blood and an enduring love for storytelling.
News of Gracie’s passing has left fans and colleagues in shock. The Machachari family poured in heartfelt tributes, with actor Malik Lemmy (Govi) writing, “Oh God. This really shocked me. I am so sorry. May Gracie, Mama Bob, rest in eternal peace.”
Another fan, @MsCaxton, shared, “Rest in peace Mama Bob. Thanks for making my childhood memories sweet.” A neighbour, @MissMiami, added, “Mama Bob is my neighbour. May her soul rest in peace.”
The outpouring of love is a testament to how deeply Machachari touched audiences across Kenya. To many, Mama Bob wasn’t just a television character — she represented the everyday mother, loving yet firm, humorous yet wise.