Mourners Carry the casket " Janaza " Containing the remains of the late Marhum Bilal Wanjau from Jamia Mosque Machakos to the Muslim Cemetary in Machakos on December 5, 2025. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva
Hundreds of mourners on Friday thronged the Machakos Jamia Mosque to pay their last respects and offer Janaza prayers for the late Bilal Wanjau, a celebrated TV artist and actor popularly known by his screen name “Afande Kasoro.”
Wanjau passed away in Nairobi on Thursday after a short illness, sending shockwaves across Kenya’s film and entertainment industry.
Before his demise, the late Wanjau had earned wide acclaim for his outstanding roles in local television productions. He was the son of retired Kenyan and international boxer Ibrahim Saff Bilali, who famously won a silver medal for Kenya during the 1992 Olympics in Los Angeles.
After prayers at the Machakos Jamia Mosque, Wanjau was laid to rest at the Machakos Muslim Cemetery in accordance with Islamic rites.
The burial drew a large turnout from fellow actors, producers, and members of the film fraternity. Among those present were the group’s Chair Mr. Mageto Njenga, actor Njoro wa Uba, the Prosecutor from Vioja Mahakamani, and Mr. Naipei, known for his role in Shanga, among others.
An emotional Ibrahim Bilali expressed gratitude to all who attended the funeral, thanking the public for standing with his family during the difficult moment.
Wanjau is remembered for his talent, humility, and contribution to Kenya’s growing television industry.
