Lilian Odera is a veteran Kenyan journalist and one of the few editors of Foreign Affairs in Kenya. Lilian, popularly known as ‘Lilo’ among her peers, was a Managing Editor (ME) at the Standard Group until the end of 2025. By the time this article was published, there were reports that the seasoned journalist was leaving the Mombasa Road-based media giant.
She is a social justice enthusiast who believes in Diplomacy, sound Foreign Policy formulation, and effective Communication processes as critical tools for balancing International Affairs.
She has worked for the Standard Group’s KTN for years, rising through the ranks. Her promotion followed a string of restructuring changes at the company.
In 2023, the Standard Media Group implemented a series of changes within its editorial team, affecting nearly 10 senior journalists.
Odera, who previously served as Program Editor in TV Output, was reassigned to the SuperDesk to take on the role of Continuity Editor.
Lilian Odera Career Background
Lilian Odera is the founder of Lisha Communications, a self-employed venture she has led since November 2022.
Before this, she served as the Foreign Affairs Editor at KTN News, under Standard Group PLC, from October 2015 to November 2022.
She began her journalism journey at KTN as a Features Editor and Senior Reporter under Standard Media Group, a role she held from June 1999 to September 2005.
Odera also held the position of Associate Editor at Royal Media Services from March 2006 to March 2009.
Between May 2012 and June 2014, she worked as an Associate PR Account Director and Media Relations Consultant at Apex Porter Novelli in Nairobi.
She also had a stint at the National Democratic Institute (NDI) from January to July 2015.
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Educational Background
Lilian Odera holds a master’s degree in communication and media studies from Aga Khan University, earned between February 2022 and November 2023.
She also earned an Executive master’s in Media Leadership and Innovation from the United States International University – Africa, where she studied International Relations, Diplomacy, and Foreign Policy from 2012 to 2015.
Earlier, she attended the Radio Netherlands Training Centre in 2004–2005, focusing on Conflict and Cohesion.
Lilian began her formal media education at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC), based in Nairobi’s South B, earning a diploma in Mass Communication and Media Studies between 1996 and 2000.
Also Read: Linus Kaikai Profile: Education Background, Family, Career and Age
Odera’s Skills
Lilian Odera possesses a diverse set of skills, including social media management, international relations, and reputation management.
She is also experienced in journalism, project management, and drafting press releases.
In addition, she is proficient in strategic communications, copy editing, speech writing, and public relations.
She also has skills in crisis management, peacebuilding, corporate communications, politics, diplomacy, and exceptional people skills.
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She’s a great professional! I visited Kenya twice, in 1996 and 1999 to attend training programs in Kenya Institute of Mass Communication. And I remember to notice this name in KTN! May be is the same journalist. Since then I never forget.
When I get this article was a great and very good surprise.
I whish all the best for Lilian Odera .
From Mozambique
Jose Trindade Zucula