In Kenya, several journalists have graced TV screens and radio airwaves for over 20 years, captivating audiences with their charisma, talent, and dedication.
These seasoned figures have become household names, shaping the country’s media landscape and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Below are five distinguished media personalities who have continuously entertained and informed Kenyans for more than two decades.
Fayyaz Qureshi
Fayyaz Qureshi joined KTN in 1990 and quickly became one of the most recognized news anchors in the country.
He co-anchored the news alongside the late Catherine Kasavuli, forming a strong on-screen partnership that resonated with viewers.
While at KTN, Fayyaz hosted Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Wiki, a popular quiz show that cemented his place in Kenyan television history.
In 2005, he left Standard Media Group and relocated to the United Kingdom, where he worked for 10 years.
Fayyaz returned to Kenya and reunited with Catherine Kasavuli at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).
In July 2021, he joined KBC’s Legend Edition team, where he continues to serve as one of the most celebrated media icons.
Swaleh Mdoe
Swaleh Mdoe is a household name in Kenya, celebrated for his longstanding career as a Swahili news anchor.
He began anchoring Swahili news at NTV in 1999 and worked there until 2001.
Swaleh later joined KTN, where he pioneered Mbiu ya KTN, a Swahili news bulletin that aired from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
After six years at KTN, Swaleh moved to Citizen TV in 2007, serving as a news anchor and Managing Editor.
At Citizen TV, he runs Tafakari ya Babu, a segment known for its thought-provoking Swahili proverbs and reflections during the 7:00 PM bulletin.
Jeff Koinange
Jeff Koinange has graced Kenyan television screens for decades, becoming one of the most iconic media personalities in the country.
He began his career at KTN in 1995, working as a part-time news anchor and a Reuters correspondent.
In 1998, Jeff left KTN to join Reuters as the West Africa Bureau Chief, based in Ivory Coast.
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Also Read: Jeff Koinange Profile: Education Background, Family, Career and Age
He later joined CNN in 2001, where he achieved international recognition as Senior African Correspondent until 2007.
After CNN, Jeff returned to Kenya and hosted Jeff Koinange Live (JKL) on K24 TV from 2007 to 2012.
In 2013, Jeff rejoined KTN to host JKL before moving to Citizen TV in 2016, where he anchors news on Wednesdays and Sundays alongside Olive Burrows and continues hosting JKL.
Fred Obachi Machoka
Veteran radio journalist Fred Obachi Machoka has dominated Kenya’s media for over four decades.
He began his radio career in 1976 at Voice of Kenya (now KBC Radio), where he gained fame as a charismatic host.
Fred became synonymous with Rhumba and Lingala music, genres originating from DRC Congo, which he played during his shows.
After more than 25 years at KBC, Fred left in 2002 and joined Radio Citizen, where he has hosted Roga Roga since then.
In addition to his radio work, Fred promotes local talent and hosts Roga Roga on Citizen TV every Saturday afternoon.
Maina Kageni
Maina Kageni began his career at Capital FM in 1999 as a sports presenter after landing a voice-over gig.
He briefly worked at Nation FM before joining Kiss FM, where he became one of Kenya’s most sought-after presenters.
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In 2007, Maina moved to Classic 105, where he has hosted the popular Maina and King’ang’i in the Morning show alongside comedian Daniel Ndambuki (King’ang’i).
The show, known for its lively and humorous discussions on relationships and social issues, remains one of the most listened-to programs in Kenya.
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