The Kenyan journalism community is grappling with shock and grief following the tragic death of veteran journalist Silas Apollo, who was fatally struck by a speeding vehicle in Nairobi on Thursday, April 10. The incident, which occurred along Valley Road, has reignited concerns over road safety and the alarming number of journalists lost in similar accidents.
A Tragic Night on Valley Road
According to police reports, Apollo was attempting to cross the busy road when he was hit by a speeding car. The driver did not stop to assist him, instead fleeing the scene immediately. Hours later, authorities managed to track down the motorist after he presented himself at Lang’ata Police Station, initially claiming he had hit a dog in Kilimani.
However, officers quickly connected his account to the fatal hit-and-run reported earlier. The driver was detained but later released on cash bail as investigations continue. Apollo’s body was taken to City Mortuary, where colleagues and family gathered to identify him.
A Career Cut Short: Apollo’s Legacy in Journalism
Silas Apollo was a respected political reporter, known for his sharp analysis and dedication to impactful storytelling. He began his career as an intern at Nation Media Group before rising through the ranks to become a news reporter at NTV, where he worked for five years. Most recently, he contributed to Nairobi Law Monthly, further cementing his reputation as a meticulous journalist.
Tributes have poured in from media professionals, editors, and friends, all mourning a man described as passionate, detail-oriented, and deeply committed to his craft. His sudden death has left a void in Kenya’s media landscape, with many calling for stricter road safety measures to protect pedestrians.
A Disturbing Trend: Journalists Lost to Road Accidents
Apollo’s death is the latest in a string of fatal accidents involving Kenyan journalists. In the past five years, over 20 media professionals have died in road-related incidents, including celebrated writer Ken Walibora.
Just weeks before Apollo’s passing, two other journalists—Nick Mudimba and Fredrick Parsayo—also lost their lives, compounding the grief within the industry. The alarming frequency of these tragedies has sparked calls for better pedestrian infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
Remembering Silas Apollo: A Voice for Truth
Apollo’s journey in journalism began at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), where he served as a news editor at MMUST FM. His talent and dedication earned him a position at Nation Media Group, where he evolved from an intern to a trusted political correspondent.
Colleagues remember him as a humble yet fearless reporter, always willing to dig deeper for the truth. His work at NTV and Nairobi Law Monthly set a standard for excellence, inspiring many young journalists.
Demanding Justice and Safer Roads
As the investigation into Apollo’s death continues, many are demanding accountability from the driver involved. Hit-and-run cases remain a major concern in Kenya, with pedestrians at constant risk due to reckless driving and poor road designs.
Media associations, including the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), have called for urgent action to prevent further losses. Proposals include better street lighting, speed bumps near high-risk areas, and harsher penalties for hit-and-run offenders.
Final Farewell: A Nation Mourns
Plans for Apollo’s burial are underway, with colleagues and loved ones preparing to honor his legacy. His death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers journalists face—not just in conflict zones but even on the streets they report on daily.
Kenya’s media fraternity has lost yet another bright mind, but Apollo’s work will continue to inspire. As the industry mourns, the call for safer roads and justice for victims grows louder.
