Several senators have paid tribute to veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka, recalling his influence on Kenyan popular culture and broadcasting as he prepares to mark 50 years in the industry.
The tributes came during an afternoon Senate session, with lawmakers sharing personal memories of Machoka’s work and career ahead of his retirement celebration on Saturday, October 10.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka recalled learning Lingala from Machoka, saying the broadcaster introduced him to phrases that became popular among his listeners.
“Obachi Machokaa ndiye alinifundisha Kilingala. Unasema Masango nini, Masango bien, Malamu nini, Malamu bien,” Onyonka said.
Nyamira Senator Okong’o Mogeni described Machoka as “an iconic personality in our country”, also recalling the attention he attracted among parliamentary staff.
“Inspector Mwala got a scramble from Bunge staff who wanted to take photos with him,” Mogeni said.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot also acknowledged Machoka’s upcoming milestone, revealing that he had bought tickets to attend the October 10 celebration.
“I know Fred has a big show this weekend. I already have tickets. I bought them. And I hope nobody gets a temptation to ask for free tickets,” Cheruiyot said.
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana paid tribute to Machoka’s wife, Sophie, whom he said had been his teacher at Alliance High School.
“I want to pay a special tribute Mrs Machoka. She was my teacher at Alliance for many years. We want to tell you we love you. You have the best senator,” Mungatana said.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also praised the Machoka family and thanked media proprietor SK Macharia for giving the veteran broadcaster an opportunity to build his career.
Onyonka further called for retired ambassadors to be given a greater role in public service, suggesting that experienced figures could serve as presidential advisers.
Machoka began his broadcasting career in the 1970s at the Voice of Kenya, now the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, after taking part in a talent competition while serving as a General Service Unit officer.
He later ventured into business, running FM 35 from 1988 before joining Royal Media Services’ Radio Citizen in 2002.
He became widely known for the long-running “Roga Roga” show, which combined Congolese rumba with lively commentary.
Over the course of his career, Machoka also hosted television programmes including “Music Time” and “Talk of Time”.
He was awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior in 2021 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.
In July 2026, the Media Council of Kenya formally honoured him for 50 years in broadcasting ahead of his retirement celebration.
The commemoration for his illustrious broadcast career is set for Saturday, October 10, 2026 at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi.