Ciku Muiruri is a highly celebrated Kenyan media personality, author, and activist. Over her impressive career spanning more than 15 years, she has firmly established herself as an influential and respected figure in her profession.
Here is her story as told by WoK.
Background
The ex-radio host was born and raised in Nairobi, growing up as the second-last born in a family of six children. Her early years were spent in Thika, where her parents relocated when she was young.
During an interview with K24, Ciku shared her childhood memories, describing herself as her father’s favorite daughter and highlighting the close relationship she had with him.
His passing away in a tragic road accident marked a significant turning point in her life.
Education: From Thika To Oxford
She started her education at Muthaiga Primary School in Nairobi before moving on to Thika Memorial High School. After completing her high school education, she went to Oxford for her A-levels.
She pursued a diploma and later a degree in Business Administration. However, due to financial limitations, she had to return to Kenya before completing her degree.
Life In Kenya
When she came back, Ciku took some time off her career as she was young. It was during this time that she met a man who she lived with for two years, and together bore a girl child, Erica Gachoka. This would end terribly and the breakup was ‘nasty’ according to Ciku. The guy used to date her best friend back then.
Radio Career- Queen Of ‘Busted’
Ciku Muiruri embarked on an extraordinary journey in the media industry with a career in radio. She gained prominence as a radio presenter at Capital FM, one of Kenya’s leading radio stations.
After her departure from the station in December 2013, Ciku Muiruri continued to make her mark in the radio industry, gracing the airwaves of various other stations, including Kiss 100, Easy FM, and Classic 105.
Ciku had an impressive and captivating tenure on radio, spanning over a decade, with her notable peak at Classic 105. During this time, she garnered a substantial following and also faced criticism due to her popular segment called “Busted.” This segment focused on exposing cheating couples live on air, earning her both adoration and animosity from listeners.
The show explored the complexities of relationships and exposed instances of infidelity, captivating audiences across the nation. However, the show faced criticism from some Kenyans who viewed Ciku as a home-wrecker rather than someone trying to strengthen relationships.
In addition to hosting shows, she also took on the role of Assistant Programme Controller at Classic FM, showcasing her versatility and expertise. Throughout her radio career, Ciku’s charismatic presence and relatable style endeared her to audiences, earning her a cherished and trusted role in the media industry.
Writing Career and Activism
Ciku Muiruri’s talents extended beyond radio as she ventured into writing, emerging as a notable columnist for Pulse Magazine, a publication by Standard Media.
Her insightful and compelling pieces, addressing a diverse range of social issues, were published in the Standard Newspaper every Friday.
Through her writing, she further solidified her reputation as a thought-provoking media personality, resonating with readers and sparking meaningful conversations.
Beyond her media endeavours, the ex-busted radio host is a passionate activist, actively involved in advocating for causes close to her heart. Her daughter, Erica Gachoka, founded the Le Ngai Foundation, which tirelessly champions easy access to blood for all Kenyans. Ciku wholeheartedly supports her daughter’s foundation and utilizes her platform to raise awareness about vital social issues in the country.
Her Book ‘Love Is But A Dream’
In her book, “Love is But A Dream,” she delves into the complexities of relationships, discussing the good, the bad, and the ugly. With humor and thorough research, Muiruri presents thought-provoking insights.
The book tackles questions about what modern women desire in and out of bed, the satisfaction of men with one partner, strategies to acquire financial support from a man, dealing with a partner who strays, and even explores the effectiveness of love potions.
Muiruri fearlessly addresses these topics, providing hard truths that can potentially transform our perspective on relationships. Indeed, it’s a dream-like journey through the intricacies of love and romance.
Daughter’s Abduction
In a tragic and dramatic turn of events, the ex-presenter faced one of the most challenging experiences a parent can endure when her daughter was abducted alongside her fried in Westlands, Nairobi. Erica and her friend Shanice Agose were rescued by the police after being abducted for a week in Nairobi’s Westlands area.
The traumatic incident shocked the nation and prompted Ciku to use her platform to raise awareness about child safety, abduction prevention, and the importance of community vigilance.
They were found in a house in the Mang’u area of Thika, where they had been held captive. Two suspects were arrested during the operation.
