Stella Wambui Kanogo, the mother of the late media personality Mary Njambi, has written an emotional tribute to her daughter, describing her as a phenomenal woman whose spirit profoundly impacted everyone she met. Njambi, affectionately known as Jahmby Fayah Mummah, was a reggae titan and celebrated health advocate who passed away on June 3 after a prolonged battle with endometriosis.
In her tribute, Stella conveyed the deep sadness and disbelief felt by her family, emphasizing that her daughter was a fierce fighter always brimming with optimism.
“It is still hard to believe that she is no longer with us. Her absence feels like a terrible dream from which we hope to wake up,” she wrote.
“Since childhood, Njambi has faced life’s challenges with the heart of a lioness and the grace of a queen. She never allowed adversity to wear her down. Instead, she fought fiercely and always emerged stronger. Her optimism was unwavering and she had a unique gift for seeing the glass half full no matter what the circumstances.”
She also described Njambi as her biggest cheerleader, a protector and a massive source of support for the entire family.
“Njambi was more than a daughter and sister; she was our protector. As a sister, I remember her vigilance whenever I went out, asking for the phone numbers of everyone I met, ready to call if I didn’t get home on time,” Stella said.
“She was my biggest cheerleader and her pride in all my victories was boundless. She was my best friend, the first person I spoke to every morning and we talked about every detail of our lives. We called each other ‘Bebe’ and saw each other as precious gifts to be loved and cherished.”
Stella continued reminisce on her daughter’s humor, talent and deep sense of humanity, adding that she (Njambi) was instrumental in pumping back hope and joy in the family even during their lowest moments.
“Njambi was our guide in so many ways, teaching us the latest sheng’ and making us laugh with her explanations. At our lowest moments, she sat with us in our pain until it faded. She made us believe in ourselves even when we doubted,” Stella recalled.
“You will be missed beyond words. You inspired us so much to pursue the things that matter most in our lives. You have left a huge void in our lives and no one will ever be able to fill your shoes. The only comfort we can find is knowing that you are free of pain, reunited with Mummy and sharing stories again.”
Njambi will be buried at Lang’ata Cemetery on Friday, June 14.
