When it comes to vernacular FM stations in Kenya, Kikuyu radio stations stand. Their success not only stems from their large fan base but also from the charismatic and captivating presenters who have endeared themselves to listeners.
These presenters have become household names in many Kikuyu homes, and their influence is undeniable.
Here are the top five presenters who turned to politics as compiled by WoK.
Karungo Wa Thangwa
Karungo Thangwa is a prominent figure in Kiambu County who has made significant contributions throughout his career. Currently serving as the Chief Executive Committee Member in the Kiambu County Government, he diligently represents the people of Ngewa and is recognized as the leading debater in the Kiambu County Parliament.
Prior to his political career, Thangwa excelled in communication and branding, working his way up from a part-time lecturer to the Brand & Communications Manager at NIBS.
He also achieved notable success as the first African radio presenter and producer at CRI in China, hosted shows in both English and Swahili, and honed his media skills at Kameme FM as a presenter and newscaster.
Karungo Wa Thangwa, who hails from Ngewa ward in Githunguri constituency, Kiambu, has demonstrated prowess both in radio hosting and politics.
Starting his journey as a presenter at Kameme FM in 2001 at the young age of 20, Karungo quickly gained popularity with his raspy voice and sharp intellect.
He transitioned to news presenting a year later but ventured to China at the height of his fame. In China, he worked as a lecturer but eventually returned to Kenya in 2007, resuming his role at Kameme FM. Despite facing setbacks in other ventures, Karungo found solace at Gukena FM, where he currently works.
He also ventured into politics, earning overwhelming support from the people of Ngewa ward, who elected him as their MCA.
Sabina Chege: Beauty And Brains
Sabina Chege has held various positions throughout her career. From 2022 to the present, she serves as a Nominated Member of Parliament under the Parliamentary Service Commission. In the period of 2017 to 2022, she held the position of Women Representative for Muranga County under the same commission. Prior to her political career, from 2007 to 2012, she worked as the Women Representative for Muranga County.
Before that, she served as a Programme Controller for Commercial Radio Services at Kenya Broadcasting Corporation from 2005 to 2007. From 2002 to 2005, she was a Business Development Manager at World Space Africa, and from 1997 to 2000, she worked as a Marketing Manager and Broadcaster at Regional Reach Limited/Kameme FM.
Sabina Chege, apart from her controversial personal life, has established herself as an iconic figure among Kikuyu radio listeners and residents of Murang’a County. Prior to joining Coro FM, she impressed Tausi fans as an actor. Upon entering the radio industry, she swiftly climbed the ranks, displacing other morning Kikuyu radio show presenters.
In 2013, Sabina secured the Murang’a woman representative seat, earning the endearing moniker “mama wa county” from her constituents. In the 2017 elections, she faced off against another Kikuyu radio presenter, Waithera wa Muithiirania, ultimately winning the race and consolidating her support base.
Njogu Wa Njoroge
Former Kameme FM presenter, Njogu Wa Njoroge started as a renowned radio presenter and ventured into politics before ultimately securing a government appointment.
Njoroge’s entry into the political arena began when he announced his candidacy for the Njoro parliamentary seat under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party but suffered defeat during the nominations.
Following his defeat, Njoroge graciously acknowledged the victory of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Charity Kathambi. He pledged to work collaboratively with her to bring about positive change and improvements to the lives of the people of Njoro.
While his political journey may have faced a setback, his career took an interesting turn with his recent appointment as the Chairperson of the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB).
This appointment grants Njoroge the responsibility of overseeing the creation, broadcasting, distribution, and exhibition of film and broadcast content, contributing to the development of the country’s media landscape.
Wa Muchomba: The Queen of Radio Politics
Wa Muchomba, known for her role as a presenter on Inooro FM, reigned supreme as the “queen of Radio politics in Kenya” during her tenure. She co-hosted the Inooro FM Breakfast show and provided political commentary on the “Kririmbi Kia Inooro” segment between 2003 and 2006.
Her show connected estranged family members, friends turned foes, and was widely regarded as the best radio show in Kenya. After a hiatus from radio and an unsuccessful foray into other media enterprises, Wa Muchomba realized the wisdom of returning to radio.
She resurfaced on Kameme FM with the popular show “Inuiguithania,” once again capturing the hearts of Kikuyu radio lovers and reminding everyone of her forgotten radio prowess.
Waithera wa Muithiirania
Waithera wa Muithiirania, a former presenter at Coro FM and later at Inooro FM, exhibited her talent and charisma in the radio industry. Though she was defeated by Sabina Chege in the 2017 elections, her journey in politics is far from over.
Having aged gracefully like wine, Waithera continues to inspire her followers with her unwavering spirit and dedication.
