Radio personality Natalie Githinji has opened up about her ongoing grief a year after the passing of her close friend, reggae icon and media personality Njambi Koikai, popularly known as Fayah Mammah. In a deeply personal tribute, Natalie revealed that she is still struggling to come to terms with the loss, and that even a casual mention of Njambi’s name can stir up waves of pain.
Njambi Koikai passed away on June 3, 2024, at Nairobi Hospital, after a long and public battle with endometriosis. Her death marked the end of a courageous fight, during which she became a voice for countless women suffering from the condition. On June 3, 2025, one year since her passing, many Kenyans, including Natalie, paused to remember her legacy and the light she brought to so many lives.
Natalie, who previously worked at NRG Radio, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, describing a moment that unexpectedly reopened her emotional wounds. While out shopping, she heard a reggae mix by G-Money playing in the background, which included a shout-out to Njambi. Then, a nearby shopper uttered her name: “Jahmby Koikai Fayah Mammah.” The simple phrase hit Natalie hard.
She wrote, “One year down, I still can’t drop that post, 1 year down, still in pain. Friday I was shopping somewhere and Gmoney’s mix was playing and he gave you a shout out…. Then a guy next to me said ‘Jahmby Koikai Fayah mammah’ and I felt as if a sharp sword had passed through my chest….and that’s how I knew I have never healed…. My heart is still in pain.”
Natalie went on to reflect on how deeply Njambi had impacted her life—not just as a friend, but as a source of inspiration. “Still numb, but I celebrate you today, Sis. You gave me purpose and showed me what HOPE looks like. A WARRIOR forever. Continue resting mummy. I love you, Jahmby,” she added.
Fans also joined in honoring Njambi on her anniversary, flooding Natalie’s post with messages of remembrance and support. One follower, @georgejude818, shared that he lost his mother around the same time and buried both women in Lang’ata Cemetery. Another user, @nazllyn_duba, expressed disbelief at how fast time had flown, while others reminisced about Njambi’s infectious energy and fight for awareness.
Njambi’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, both through her media career and her brave advocacy for endometriosis awareness in Kenya. Though she may be gone, her spirit continues to inspire, as seen in Natalie’s powerful tribute and the outpouring of love from fans across the country.
