5 Things You Didn't Know About The Late Mzee Ojwang

Piece by: Caren Nyota
Lifestyle

It's yet another sad day for the Kenyan entertaiment industry. A flower has been plucked. A man who brought laughter into our living-rooms, Mzee Ojwang is no more.

Ojwang’Ondiek Nyuka

The talented comedian who featured in the famous local TV comedy Vitimbi passed on last night at the Kenyatta National hospital while undergoing treatment.

Ojwang’

A few months ago, the late was rescued by Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko who took him to Hospital where he was diagnosed with partial blindness and was taken to Loresho Eye Hospital where he was treated. However, he developed serious complications and was admitted to the Kenyatta National Hospital where he succumbed to pneumonia.

Despite him being a patriotic Kenyan, hero and legend, there are some things many of his fans don't know about him. Here is what you didn't know about Mzee Ojwang.

1. His real name

Most people have known the actor as Mzee Ojwang Hatari but his real name is Benson Wanjau. A man who made the whole nation laugh including the former presidents Daniel Arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki.

2. He was so passionate about his job and a patriotic Kenyan

A true national hero Mzee Ojwang was evidently one of the most passionate people about their work. Remember during holidays when he and the Vitimbi crew would perform. They really cracked our ribs and despite the fact that during their times acting was not a well paying, job, Ojwang did it passionately unlike the current actors who do it for money.

3. He was a Mentor

The indefatigable irrepressible Mzee Ojwang Hatari was a mentor to many especially the current comedians. Being part of the famous clique of actors, Ojwang is among the few actors who made acting industry what it is today.

4. He was 78 years old

The talented comedian passed on at the age of 78. The Kenyan acting fraternity will dearly miss you.

5. He acted for 40 years

Mzee Ojwang spent 40 years of his lifetime acting. Despite poor pay, Ojwang took his career seriously. Nowadays, its hard to find an actor who has been in the industry for more than 10 years. They barely last a decade due to lack of patience while complaining about poor pay.

R.I.P Mzee Ojwang Hatari