Kenya’s media landscape is dynamic and diverse, featuring a range of male news anchors who have significantly impacted through their storytelling and reporting. These anchors not only provide essential information to the public but also influence political discourse and shape public opinion.
With the advent of digital broadcasting, competition among news anchors has intensified, showcasing a wide array of talent across various networks. This article delves into the careers, achievements, and contributions of some of the best male news anchors in Kenya, highlighting their roles in the country’s journalism scene.
Trevor Ombija
Born on September 9, 1988, in Kisumu, Kenya, Trevor Ombija is a well-known journalist and television host at Citizen TV. He earned a BA in Journalism and Media Studies from the University of Nairobi. Ombija began his career as an intern at China Global Television Network and later worked with Nation FM and NTV before joining Citizen TV in 2019. He currently hosts the “Monday Report” and “Day Break” shows, focusing on political and social issues. Recently, Ombija made headlines by announcing that he had become a father.
Lofty Matambo
Lofty Matambo is a distinguished Kenyan journalist and news anchor currently with NTV, recognized for his engaging presentation style. He recently graduated with First Class Honours in Communications from St. Paul’s University after a 14-year educational journey, during which he worked various jobs to fund his studies. Matambo began his media career at KTN before transitioning to NTV, where he co-anchors the Swahili news. He is also known for his strong on-screen chemistry with co-anchor Fridah Mwaka, emphasizing their professional relationship.
Nimrod Taabu
Nimrod Taabu is a seasoned journalist and television anchor currently with Royal Media Services after leaving NTV. He gained widespread recognition after winning the CNN-MultiChoice Journalist Award in 2012 for his impactful reporting on water challenges in Pokot County. With over 15 years of experience in the media industry, Taabu is fluent in both English and Kiswahili and has recently joined the Kiswahili desk, where he is set to anchor a revamped bulletin.
Rashid Abdalla
Rashid Abdalla is a prominent television journalist and news anchor known for his work at Royal Media Services. He is also a film producer and co-founder of Jiffy Pictures, a production company behind popular telenovelas like “Maria,” “Zora,” and “Aziza.” Abdalla emphasizes the importance of teamwork and storytelling in his productions. He is married to fellow journalist Lulu Hassan, who is a key collaborator in his projects. Despite speculation, Abdalla recently clarified that he has no political ambitions.
Frederick Muitiriri
Frederick Muitiriri is an award-winning journalist and news anchor at NTV Kenya, primarily presenting Swahili news. He transitioned from a career in the police force to journalism, overcoming financial barriers to pursue his passion for the media. Muitiriri has received recognition for his work, including an award from the African Journalism Excellence Awards in 2023. His journey from law enforcement to broadcasting has made him a notable figure in Kenya’s media landscape.
Sam Gituku
Sam Gituku, born on August 14, 1989, is a prominent broadcast journalist known for his incisive interviewing style. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Science from Moi University and a Master’s in Communication Studies from the University of Nairobi. Gituku began his media career at Radio Citizen in 2012 and later became a news anchor and a member of Citizen TV’s News Gang. He has received accolades, including the 2014 Young Journalist of the Year Award, and is noted for his fearless questioning of public figures during interviews.
Jeff Koinange
Jeff Mwaura Koinange, born on January 7, 1966, is a renowned Kenyan journalist and television host, best known for his talk show “Jeff Koinange Live” on Citizen TV, which he has hosted since February 2017. Before that, Koinange served as CNN’s Africa correspondent from 2001 to 2007, covering significant events across the continent. He has also worked with major networks like Reuters and K24. Koinange holds a BA in Broadcast Journalism from New York University and has won multiple awards, including an Emmy for his reporting on famine in Niger.
These anchors represent the best of Kenya’s journalism, each bringing unique talents and perspectives to the screen, contributing significantly to the country’s media landscape.
