John Allan Namu a Kenyan Investigative Journalist and CEO of Africa Uncensored has recounted his eight years journey in investigative journalism content.
Allan Namu while celebrating the eighth anniversary of producing investigative pieces highlighted his source of inspiration in his investigative storytelling.
In the statement, Namu explained how people close to him would ask questions about his whereabouts after quitting his position in mainstream media.
He however would encourage himself to continue pushing for success in his endeavors despite the uncertainties and such concerns from persons close to him.
Namu further mentioned one of his friends who would remind him of a line sang by a popular group in the country stating that “itachukua miaka nane ndio mjulikane”, which is loosely translated to “it will take eight years for you to be recognized”.
And sure enough, it would take Kenyans approximately eight years to finally recognize his efforts and work- according to his revelation.
“Incredible highs and soul-crushing lows. Lots of “Wewe ulienda wapi?” questions, followed by blank stares when I say where I am now,” said Namu.
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“Elijah Kanyi (his employee) reminded me of that timeless Kleptomaniacs line “itachukua miaka nane ndio mjulikane”. This is true in part,” said Namu.
Eight Years Producing Investigative Journalism
Additionally, Allan Namu acknowledged that he was yet to realize his goals and reams as envisaged at the start of career.
“It has taken many years for people to recognize the effort that we put into our work. It will take some more years before we get where we need to be,” stated Namu.
The award-winning journalist also revealed his conversation with Odanga Madung, a renowned data journalist, who asked why he had not featured in an investigative piece.
Madung, according to Namu, was surprised by the superb quality of that particular piece despite Namu’s absence infront of the camera.
However, according to Namu, such pieces done by other journalists present him with an opportunity to be proud of his team while cheering from the sidelines.
“Odanga Madung told me some weeks ago that the reason he was excited about #TitleDeals is that it was a successful AUC story that didn’t have me front of camera,” said Namu.
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Namu’s Message to Audiences
Allan Namu then extended his appreciation to his workers while marking the eight years of merging social media and mainstream media.
“Too many to state here. Every day there is something a team member is doing that makes me even more grateful for the journey,” noted Namu.
He also thanked his audiences for being the winds beneath his wings in the investigative stories.
“For every day above ground, with the opportunity to keep working I am thankful to our audiences, to the team, to my family and to God that @AfUncensored is around and able to tell stories that matter to the public,” he stated.
Moreover, the media personality expressed his unending commitment to keep up with the work of producing investigative and expose stories.
“I don’t know what lies ahead but I know that we will face whatever comes with the same clarity of mission; to investigate, expose and empower. Thank you,” affirmed Namu.
