Dr. Kingori, the charismatic host of the highly acclaimed show “The Wicked Edition” on NTV, has undoubtedly become a household name in Kenya. Through his quick wit and incisive commentary, he has captured the hearts of audiences, solidifying his position as one of the nation’s most beloved media personalities.
However, behind his remarkable success lies a journey of unwavering determination, overcoming poverty, and defying the odds. In a recent Engage series talk, Dr. Kingori courageously shared his extraordinary story, tracing his humble beginnings to his current role as the host of Kenya’s longest-running television show.
During this enlightening conversation, he revealed his mother’s aspirations for him to become a doctor and the hurdles they encountered as a family. “My mother had always dreamt of me becoming a doctor,” Dr. Kingori disclosed. “She perceived it as an opportunity for us to escape the clutches of poverty. Working as a casual employee at two hospitals, she was aware of the limitations she faced without additional qualifications.”
Growing up in impoverished circumstances, Dr. Kingori faced numerous obstacles. Nevertheless, he overcame them through his resourcefulness and resolute determination. He reminisced about a time during primary school when he couldn’t afford new shoes, resorting instead to wearing his mother’s high-heeled boots to school.
Reflecting on this experience, he shared, “I vividly recall a day in seventh grade when I nearly attended school barefoot because my shoes were tattered. But creativity became my ally. I went to school wearing my mother’s high-heeled boots. It’s funny how people often associate men wearing high heels in the 17th century, but let’s not look too far back—I was rocking them in the mid-2000s.”
Following his exceptional performance in primary school exams, Dr. Kingori was presented with an opportunity that seemed like a stepping stone towards his mother’s dream. He gained admission to one of the top three high schools in the province, Nguviu Boys High School.
“For my mother, this was a significant milestone. It meant we were one step closer to realizing her dream,” he shared. “The plan was for me to excel in high school, and then the government would step in and facilitate my journey to medical school.”
Yet, life had a different path in store for Dr. Kingori—one that led him to the captivating world of media and entertainment. His show, The Wicked Edition, rapidly garnered popularity due to its satirical approach to current affairs and its ability to provide a platform for vital discussions.
Today, The Wicked Edition stands as Kenya’s longest-running television show—an undeniable testament to Dr. Kingori’s exceptional talent and his remarkable ability to connect with his audience.
