The life story of Willis Raburu is not only captivating but also serves as an inspiration to many. As one of Kenya’s prominent media personalities, Raburu gained fame through his popular “10 over 10” show on Citizen TV. Despite being raised in an affluent family, his journey to success was far from easy.
Born on April 1, 1987, in Kano, Nyando District, Kisumu County, Willis Raburu is the third-born and youngest son in a family of four. His father, Peter Raburu, was a well-known Provincial Commissioner turned pastor in Kisumu County.
Raburu’s educational journey began at Aga Khan Primary School in Kisumu, followed by his time at the boarding school Chemelil Academy Mixed High School. During high school, he hustled by fetching water for fellow students when the tanks were dry. After completing high school, he defied his father’s wish for him to pursue IT and instead pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Information Science – Media at Moi University Eldoret. Despite initially misleading his father about his course of study, Raburu eventually pursued a master’s degree at USIU University.
Embarking on his career, Raburu interned at Media Max (K24) during his third year at university. His hard work and divine favor secured him a position at Citizen TV in October 2010, straight after graduation. He reflected on this pivotal moment, emphasizing that his employment at a reputable organization challenged the notion that connections were essential for such opportunities.
Raburu’s career progression included hosting the “10 over 10” show at Citizen TV, where he earned a monthly salary of kes700,000, inclusive of allowances. In 2023, he made a career move to TV 47, becoming the host of the “Wabebe Experience” and reportedly earning close to ksh.1 Million per month.
Beyond his media roles, Willis Raburu has diversified his income streams. He earns from Royal Media, where he engages in both TV and radio work. He is the founder of the entertainment company Bazu Entertainment, and his involvement as a hype man and event organizer contributes to his wealth.
Living a lavish life, Raburu resides in a luxurious house in one of Nairobi’s upscale estates. His car collection includes prestigious models like BMW, Lexus, Mercedes Benz, and Subaru, showcasing his affluence.
In the realm of personal life, Raburu faced challenges in marriage but eventually found stability with Ivy Namu. As of 2022, they have two children together. Prior to this, he went through a divorce with his first wife, Mary Prude, in 2020, citing internal disputes. Willis Raburu’s life journey serves as a testament to perseverance and success against the odds.
