- Francis Atwoli and Mary Kilobi presented a personalized white cake to Jeff Koinange to celebrate his birthday
- Kilobi praised Jeff as a source of inspiration for Kenya, East Africa and beyond, while Atwoli made an open confession
- The tender moment between Atwoli and Kilobi drew attention as the celebrations continued inside the Citizen TV studios
General secretary of COTU Francis Atwoli and his wife, Mary Kilobi, made a touching surprise for veteran journalist Jeff Koinange as he celebrated his 60th birthday live on air.
Source: Facebook
Atwoli was a guest on Jeff Koinange Live on Citizen TV Wednesday, January 7, the day he would have celebrated his 60th birthday.
How did Atwoli respect Jeff Koinange?
As the episode drew to a close, Atwoli hinted that he and his wife had something special in store for their longtime friend.
“Let’s see what Mary has brought us. We have been friends for many years. We were together in America and even lived together there,” Atwoli said softly.
Moments later, two men entered the studio carrying a cake-laden table with Kilobi following close behind, drawing cheers and applause from those present.
The white cake featured an elaborate decoration of Jeff sitting on his famous interview bench, a symbol of the platform that defined his flourishing career.
“See! The bench is here. Happy birthday, JK,” Atwoli said, smiling.
Mary Kilobi’s Birthday Message to Jeff Koinange
Kilobi then gave a heartfelt message that touched those in the studio.
“Happy birthday, Jeff. You are a source of inspiration to many. You are a gift not only to the media fraternity, but to Kenya, East Africa and beyond. May this next decade give you the best memories of your life,” he said.
An emotional Jeff responded with gratitude, saying:
“This is a great kindness from you. Maria, thank you very much.”
With Atwoli by his side, Jeff carefully cut the cake, while journalist Trevor Ombija, who was also in the studio, congratulated them.
In his generous spirit, Jeff continued to share the cake with everyone present, including his studio colleagues.
Mary Kilobi wipes Atwoli’s lips in the studio
One tender moment stood out during the ceremony when Kilobi lovingly wiped Atwoli’s lips after eating a piece of cake, drawing smiles from onlookers.
As the show came to an end, Atwoli gave a farewell speech that explained the strong relationship he shared with the birthday boy.
He said:
“Jeff, you have made Kenyans proud. It is only your program that builds me up. You know me well and made me reveal things that I never told even my deceased wife. Things that I never even told Mary, but in front of you, I will speak.”
What Gifts Did Jeff Koinange Receive From His Colleagues?
On Wednesday, January 7, Jeff’s colleagues from Hot 96 celebrated his birthday with laughter.
During his morning session, his colleagues surprised him with gifts of rib-sticking foods, including cooking oil, cornmeal and sukuma greens.
Source: Facebook
Fans joined in online, praising the strong relationship between Jeff and his co-hosts as they wished the media personality a happy birthday.
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