“It took me 17 years and 114 days to become an overnight success.” This Lionel Messi quote resonates deeply with the inspiring journey of Dennis Gathaiya, a vibrant voice on Kameme FM’s popular afternoon show, Kwigangara, co-hosted with comedian Ngoni wa Thuita.
Early Life and Formative Years
Born in the lush tea-growing region of Mioro, Mathioya in Murang’a County, Dennis grew up as the youngest of three in a family of teachers. His stability was shaken at age ten when he lost his father, and his mother became the sole provider.
In primary school, he was transferred to St. Benedict Boys’ in Neri, where life in a boarding environment introduced him to new cultural experiences and adaptation challenges. Despite financial instability, including frequent school fee struggles, Dennis thrived academically and went on to attend Karima Boys’ High School in Nyeri.
Discovering His Calling
While in high school, Dennis found his passion for vernacular radio broadcasting. Inspired by presenters such as Penina Muthoni Mbugua, Njoki Ndegwa, and Anderson Waweru, he also nurtured a love for reading—especially unfolding stories in the Kikuyu magazine Mwihoko.
His talent in language arts earned him the distinction of becoming the youngest student ever to chair his high school’s journalism club.
First Steps in Media
Dennis attended Smart Media College in Nairobi, where he focused exclusively on vernacular broadcasting—contrary to peers aiming for Swahili or English stations. His hands-on attachment at Bahasha FM (later Countryside FM) allowed him to learn from established professionals like George Waweru and a young Larry Madowo.
The Tough Road of Early Employment
His first job post-college was lecturing in radio production and journalism at a small college in South B, earning just Sh 5,000 per month—paid in cash, so modest there was no thought of bank deposits. Later, another lecturing role promised Sh 12,000, yet he rarely received it in full, often getting installments like Sh 2,000 at a time. After protesting, he was eventually let go, and with no income and rent due, he returned home to Murang’a.
The Breakthrough at Kameme FM
After three months, encouraged by his mother, Dennis moved back to Nairobi and rented in Githurai. It was there he saw an advert for an opening at Kameme FM. Driven by passion and determination, he hand-delivered his application and impressed during the interview process.
In 2012, he earned a spot on Kwigangara—the very show he now anchors alongside his dynamic co-host, Ngoni wa Thuita.
