Willis Raburu is an award-winning journalist and media personality who recently officially declared his interest in politics.
Under the Linda Mwananchi Movement, Raburu will be contesting the Kisumu Senate seat in the 2027 general elections.
During his welcome to the Linda Mwananchi Movement, Siaya Governor James Orengo announced Raburu’s intention to contest the Kisumu Senatorial seat currently held by Senator Tom Ojienda.
“Today, I had an engaging one‑on‑one discussion with Willis Raburu. He’s officially bringing his signature youthful energy, corporate MC expertise, and creative media edge to the Linda Mwananchi Movement,” James Orengo said.
Early Life and Family
Willis Raburu was born on April 1, 1987, in Kisumu County, is the third of four children, and is the youngest son.
His father, Peter Otieno Raburu, served in the Kenya civil service before becoming a pastor in Kisumu.
During Peter’s 30 years of service in Kenya, he rose in rank from District Officer III to Provincial Commissioner (PC) under former President Daniel Moi’s reign.
Raburu’s father is married to Ruth Raburu.
In his personal life, Raburu was married to Marya Prude before divorcing in 2019.
In 2021, Raburu was in a relationship with Ivy Namu, and the two had two children together before Namu announced their separation on June 17, 2026.
Also Read: Ivy Namu Confirms Breakup With Willis Raburu After Five Years
Educational Background
Raburu attended the Aga Khan Primary School and later joined Chemelil Academy High School, a mixed boarding school.
During the interview on the Obinna show, the media personality explained that he had a weight issue in secondary school.
Despite excelling in his studies, Raburu struggled to lose weight, weighing 108 kilograms in Form One.
To pursue higher education, Willis Raburu enrolled at Moi University to earn his bachelor’s degree in media studies, despite his father wanting him to study Information Technology.
Career and Achievements
Raburu started his journey in the media as an intern at K24 under the Royal Media Services, gaining experience in the media industry.
He joined Citizen TV in 2010 and worked for 13 years as a reporter, news anchor, and presenter before leaving in 2023.
During his time at Citizen TV, he worked on the current affairs desk, covering human-interest stories and features.
Through his media career, Raburu has anchored popular programs including the 10 Over 10 and TruthMeter.
Apart from his media career, Raburu is also a musician, going by the name “Big Man Bazu,” and is the CEO of Bazutainment, where he mentors up-and-coming musicians.
Furthermore, the media personality is known for his voice-imitation talent and sense of humor.
Also Read: Orengo Welcomes Willis Raburu to Linda Mwananchi, Confirms Bid for Senate Seat
Willis Raburu’s Awards
- Children’s Rights Award for his series on children of Rwanda
- Road Safety Award for “Killer Drivers” series
- Maji Award for “Deadly Waters” series
Net worth
With the 22Bet deal signed in June 2021, worth KSh 5 million, Willis Raburu’s net worth is estimated at approximately KSh 10 million, including his salary as a media personality and additional income.
In addition to his estimated worth, Raburu owns a house whose value he has not disclosed publicly.
However, the media personality lost a KSh 6.5 million trademark infringement case in October 2025.
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