As Kenya Television Network (KTN) marks 35 years of groundbreaking journalism, the station has honored 35 of its most iconic journalists.
The personalities are trailblazers whose voices, faces, and storytelling defined a generation.
Among those celebrated are the late legendary news anchor Catherine Kasavuli, known as Kenya’s first female television news presenter.
She passed away on 29 December 2022 at age 60 after a battle with cervical cancer
Jeff Koinange, now an international household name, continues to be a dominant media presence through his talk show, Jeff Koinange Live, on Citizen TV.
The campaign, dubbed “Faces That Told the Whole Story,” celebrates journalists who stood at the frontline of national conversations and political shifts.
For 35 years, these KTN legends have been trailblazers in powerful, authentic storytelling. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the voices, faces, and impactful journalism that shaped a generation.
Also Read: When Kasavuli’s Son Almost Interrupted Her While She Was Anchoring News
Other Journalists on the KTN List
Maina Kageni, known more recently for his work in radio on Classic 105, started as a business news anchor at KTN. He remains one of Kenya’s most influential media personalities.
Additionally honored is the late Ahmed Darwesh, who was known for his calm demeanor and Swahili news anchoring excellence. Darwesh passed away in 2015 and is remembered as one of the most respected Kiswahili news anchors of his time.
Julie Gichuru, once a presenter on KTN’s Sunday Live, moved to Citizen TV before launching her own production company, Arimus Media. She also serves as a global thought leader on media, innovation, and African storytelling.
Linus Kaikai, another KTN veteran, is now the Group Editorial Director at Royal Media Services. He is known for championing press freedom and ethical journalism.
Nancy Kacungira is an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur who co-founded Blu Flamingo, a digital agency operating in four African countries.
She won the inaugural BBC Komla Dumor Award in 2015 and has been recognized globally for challenging stereotypes about Africa.
Also Read: Farida Karoney: Meet Ex-CS, Biology Teacher and Journalist Appointed by Ruto
From Newsrooms to Public Leadership
KTN’s honorees also include several journalists who transitioned into politics and governance.
On the list is Faridah Karoney, who began her career at KTN and rose to serve as Cabinet Secretary for Lands under President Kenyatta, and has returned to the media sector.
In July 2025, she joined Cape Media Limited as Growth Strategy Consultant, overseeing the strategic expansion of TV47, Radio47, and digital platforms.
Also, Raphael Tuju, who was once a prominent anchor at KTN, went on to serve as a Cabinet Minister and later as Secretary General of the Jubilee Party.
Patrick Amimo, Kathleen Openda, and Fayaz Qureshi also took up public roles over the years, advising governments and working in diplomatic and policy circles.
Zain Verjee worked at CNN as a news anchor and correspondent, covering major events across Africa and the Middle East.
Sophie Ikenye joined BBC World News and became one of its leading African news anchors.
Lydia Manyasi, Ann Ngugi, and Kabira Isaiah also expanded their careers into regional and international media and communications roles.
Louis Otieno and Others Honored
Louis Otieno, once among the most influential and commanding anchors, was recognized for his years of work in hard-hitting interviews and political journalism. Despite personal and health struggles in recent years, his legacy as a fearless interviewer remains intact.
Emmanuel Juma, best known for The Bull’s Eye, a satirical take on political news, continues to influence political commentary with wit and fearless critique.
Whether covering elections, constitutional referenda, or national crises, the journalists helped inform and empower citizens.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
