Kenya’s media industry has transformed into one of the most lucrative sectors for talented professionals. Top journalists now command salaries that rival corporate executives, with some taking home over KES 2 million monthly.
This comprehensive guide reveals the highest-paid journalists in Kenya, exploring who earns what, which media houses pay the best, and what makes these media personalities worth their multi-million shilling contracts.
From TV anchors to radio hosts, discover how Kenya’s journalism elite have built empires through their voices and screens.
Understanding Kenya’s Journalism Salary Landscape
The journalism profession in Kenya presents dramatic salary variations. While entry-level reporters earn as little as KES 30,000 monthly, top-tier personalities command millions, creating one of the widest pay gaps in any profession.
What Determines Journalist Salaries
Brand value drives compensation more than journalism skills alone. Media houses pay premium salaries to personalities who attract massive viewership and command audience loyalty.
Experience and track record matter significantly. Journalists with 10+ years at reputable stations command higher salaries than equally talented newcomers.
Show ratings directly influence earning potential. Morning shows and prime-time news slots generate highest advertising revenue, justifying larger salaries for hosts who deliver consistent viewership numbers.
According to sources in Kenya’s media industry, top journalists earn between KES 50,000 to around 2 million monthly, with the highest-paid professionals commanding salaries exclusive of bonuses which amount to millions annually.
How Media Houses Compete for Talent
Royal Media Services dominates the high-salary space. Citizen TV and its affiliated radio stations consistently offer the industry’s most competitive packages to attract and retain top talent.
As of 2026, Citizen TV boasts a dynamic team of news anchors including Lilian Muli, Yvonne Okwara-Matole, Swaleh Mdoe, Lulu Hassan, Mashirima Kapombe, Trevor Ombija, and Olive Burrows.
Standard Media Group’s KTN follows with competitive offers. The station invests heavily in political and investigative journalism, paying well for experienced reporters who break major stories.
Nation Media Group’s NTV maintains strong salary structures. While some top anchors have left for competitors, NTV continues attracting talent through comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Journalist Salaries
Media houses in Kenya effected pay cuts ranging from 20 percent to 50 percent due to business slowdowns attributed to both coronavirus economic impact and an ailing Kenyan economy.
Many salaries have since been restored. As advertising revenues recovered post-pandemic, major media houses reinstated previous salary levels for their top personalities.
Some journalists left during the crisis. High-profile departures during salary cut periods reshaped Kenya’s media landscape as personalities sought better opportunities.
Top 20 Highest Paid Journalists in Kenya (2026)
These media personalities represent the cream of Kenya’s journalism profession, commanding salaries that reflect their influence and audience appeal.
1. Jeff Koinange – Citizen TV & Hot 96 (KES 2M+)
Jeff Koinange, a seasoned journalist with experience at CNN, is renowned for his “JKL Live” talk show and his charismatic presence on Citizen TV, where he also co-hosts the ‘Tonight’ news segment.
His monthly salary reportedly exceeds KES 2 million, making him Kenya’s highest-paid journalist. This figure excludes bonuses, endorsements, and income from his radio show on Hot 96.
Important Update (November 2025):
Jeff Koinange has been notably absent from Citizen TV screens since August 2025, with other presenters including Ayub Abdikadir filling in. While speculation arose about his departure, his Hot 96 co-host Fanya Mambo Kinuthia has confirmed that Koinange was never fired and remains with Royal Media Services.
In late October 2025, Koinange reassured fans in a video shared by Maina Kageni that he is “doing well and will be back very soon.” His exact return date and current contractual status remain unconfirmed as of November 2025.
Jeff’s international experience at CNN and K24 before joining Royal Media Services in 2017 positioned him as an industry heavyweight. His negotiating power reflects his proven ability to deliver consistent ratings across multiple platforms.
The veteran journalist hosts Sunday Live and Jeff Koinange Live (JKL), one of Kenya’s most-watched talk shows. His interview style, honed during his CNN years, attracts high-profile guests including politicians, business leaders, and celebrities.
Beyond his base salary, Koinange benefits from hosting fees for corporate events. His brand commands premium rates, with single appearances reportedly fetching six-figure sums.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services) & Hot 96 (status as of Nov 2025: on extended leave)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 2,000,000 – 2,500,000
- Key Shows: Jeff Koinange Live, Sunday Live, Hot 96 (when active)
2. Maina Kageni – Classic 105 (KES 1.5M – 2M)
Maina Kageni is undeniably the top and highest-paid radio presenter in Kenya, with his salary reportedly ranging between an impressive KES 1.5 million to an astonishing KES 2 million per month.
In a candid conversation with Kamene Goro, Maina Kageni confirmed that he earns over Sh2 million from his job at Classic 105 FM, cementing his position as radio’s highest earner.
Maina hosts Classic 105’s breakfast show alongside Churchill (Daniel Ndambuki), Kenya’s most-listened-to morning program. His outspoken personality and relationship advice segments have built a loyal audience that advertisers pay premium rates to reach.
Kageni’s monthly earnings are estimated to range between Ksh 1.5 million and Ksh 1.8 million, with particularly lucrative months seeing his income reportedly reach up to Ksh 10 million including bonuses and endorsements.
His success extends beyond radio. Maina owns properties in Nairobi, Florida, and Miami, works as an MC charging over KES 400,000 per event, and co-owns a modeling agency in Lagos.
- Current Station: Classic 105 (Radio Africa Group)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 1,500,000 – 2,000,000
- Key Show: Classic 105 Breakfast Show with Churchill
3. Linus Kaikai – Citizen TV (KES 1.2M)
Linus Kaikai, an experienced journalist and media strategist, chairs the Kenya Editors Guild and appears on Citizen TV’s ‘News Gang’ panel.
Kaikai serves as Director of Strategy and Innovation at Royal Media Services, combining editorial leadership with on-air presence. His dual role justifies his KES 1.2 million monthly salary.
He holds a master’s degree in International Journalism from Masinde Muliro University and has worked at KTN and South African Broadcasting Corporation, building credentials that command premium compensation.
His News Gang appearances showcase political analysis expertise that makes him invaluable during election seasons. Media houses recognize that experienced political journalists like Kaikai attract viewership during crucial news cycles.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 1,200,000
- Key Role: Director of Strategy & Innovation, News Gang Panelist
4. Daniel Ndambuki “Churchill” – Classic 105 (KES 1.2M)
Daniel Ndambuki, commonly known as “Churchill,” is the second highest-paid radio presenter in Kenya, with his estimated monthly income ranging from KES 1.2 to KES 1.3 million.
Churchill co-hosts the Classic 105 breakfast show with Maina Kageni, adding humor and engaging conversations that complement Kageni’s provocative style. Their chemistry has made the show untouchable in morning radio ratings.
Beyond radio, Churchill built Kenya’s comedy empire through his Churchill Show on NTV. His Laugh Industry has nurtured talents including MC Jessy, Eric Omondi, Chipukeezy, and Professor Hamo.
His dual income streams from radio hosting and comedy production make him one of Kenya’s wealthiest media personalities. The KES 1.2 million radio salary excludes comedy show earnings and endorsements.
- Current Station: Classic 105 (Radio Africa Group) & NTV
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 1,200,000 (radio only)
- Key Shows: Classic 105 Breakfast Show, Churchill Show
5. Joe Ageyo – Citizen TV (KES 800K – 1.5M)
Joe Ageyo, a veteran journalist, has held editorial positions at multiple media houses and has moderated presidential debates, showcasing his expertise in political journalism.
Ageyo served as an editor at Royal Media Services, bringing gravitas to major political coverage. He moderated presidential debates in 2013 at Brooke House School and 2017 at Catholic University of East Africa.
He holds a postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Nairobi, credentials that established his reputation as one of Kenya’s most respected political analysts.
His calm demeanor and analytical approach make him ideal for handling high-stakes political interviews. Media houses value journalists who can navigate sensitive political terrain without alienating any side.
- Current Station: Nation Media Group
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 800,000 – 1,500,000
- Key Role: Editor & Political Analyst
6. Yvonne Okwara – Citizen TV (KES 700K – 1M)
Yvonne Okwara joined Citizen TV in 2018 as part of its newsroom revamp, beginning her media career as a child presenter and later working at Q FM, Nation Media Group, and KTN.
She currently hosts Tonight on Thursdays and is part of News Gang, where top Citizen TV journalists discuss pressing national issues. Her incisive political analysis commands respect across Kenya’s political spectrum.
Okwara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Electronic Media and has been a key interviewer in presidential debates. Her thoroughness in preparation makes her interviews must-watch television.
Her estimated salary is around Ksh 700,000 per month, reflecting her value as both an anchor and political analyst whose insights shape public discourse.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 700,000 – 1,000,000
- Key Shows: Tonight (Thursdays), News Gang
7. Lilian Muli – Citizen TV (KES 600K – 800K)
Lilian Muli is a seasoned news anchor known for her captivating delivery and extensive industry experience at Citizen TV.
She began her media journey in 2005 as an intern at KTN before transitioning to Citizen TV in December 2010. Her move to Royal Media Services marked a turning point in her career trajectory.
Lilian holds a degree in journalism from Daystar University and an MBA in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi. Her educational credentials complement her on-screen charisma.
During her Citizen TV tenure, she hosted programs including Slim Possible, which sought to help women lose weight, and Fashion Watch. Her versatility across news and lifestyle programming adds value beyond straight news anchoring.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 600,000 – 800,000
- Key Role: Senior News Anchor
8. Gidi Ogidi – Radio Jambo (KES 700K – 1M)
Joseph Ogidi Opiyo, popularly known as Gidi, hosts Radio Jambo’s morning show “Patanisho,” which reconnects estranged lovers and friends live on radio.
He became famous in the early 2000s from the song “Unbwogable” with Maji Maji before transitioning to radio. His music background gives him unique entertainment value that translates to high listenership.
The Patanisho show’s tremendous success and wide listenership justify his substantial monthly earnings. Relationship reconciliation content generates consistent audience engagement advertisers value highly.
His chemistry with co-host Ghost Mulee creates compelling radio that keeps listeners tuned in throughout the morning drive time, Kenya’s most valuable advertising slot.
- Current Station: Radio Jambo (Royal Media Services)
Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 700,000 – 1,000,000
Key Show: Patanisho Morning Show
9. Lulu Hassan – Citizen TV (KES 500K – 800K)
Lulu Hassan is a celebrated Kiswahili news anchor who co-hosts Nipashe Wikendi alongside her husband, Rashid Abdalla.
Beyond news anchoring, Lulu has written some of Kenya’s most popular TV shows with her husband. Their production company created “Maria,” one of the most-watched shows on Kenyan television.
Lulu Hassan was paired with different anchors until the station paired her with Kanze Dena, and for years, the two were a perfect news duo on TV until Kanze left for a State House job.
Her dual income from anchoring and content production makes her one of Kenya’s highest-earning media personalities. The synergy between her on-air work and behind-scenes production multiplies her value.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 500,000 – 800,000
- Key Shows: Nipashe Wikendi, Maria (Producer)
10. Rashid Abdalla – Citizen TV (KES 500K – 800K)
Rashid Abdalla co-hosts Citizen TV’s Kiswahili news with his wife Lulu Hassan. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen production partnership create unique value for Royal Media Services.
He previously worked at QTV and Nation Media Group’s NTV before joining Citizen TV. His experience across multiple stations demonstrates consistent audience appeal that justifies premium compensation.
Together with Lulu, Rashid runs a production company creating content for Citizen TV. Their shows consistently deliver high ratings, making them indispensable to RMS’s Kiswahili programming strategy.
Their combined monthly income from salaries and production deals reportedly exceeds KES 1.5 million, making them one of Kenya’s highest-earning media couples.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 500,000 – 800,000
- Key Shows: Nipashe, Content Production
11. Trevor Ombija – Citizen TV (KES 350K – 700K)
Trevor Ombija is a rising star in Kenyan media, known for his deep voice and authoritative delivery, joining Citizen TV after working with NTV where he gained popularity as a political and business news anchor.
Ombija currently anchors prime-time news and is also a host on Day Break, a morning talk show discussing current affairs. His versatility across news formats increases his value to RMS.
His estimated salary ranges between Ksh 350,000 and Ksh 700,000 per month, positioning him among the better-compensated younger generation of Kenyan journalists.
Trevor leads a comfortable lifestyle with real estate investments. His sharp fashion sense and authoritative presence make him a rising star whose salary will likely increase significantly as his brand grows.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 350,000 – 700,000
- Key Shows: Prime Time News, Day Break
12. Mashirima Kapombe – Citizen TV (KES 300K – 600K)
Mashirima Kapombe is a distinguished Kiswahili news anchor recognized for her eloquence and engaging reporting, holding a degree in Communication and Electronic Media from Daystar University.
She has worked at Q FM, NTV, and KTN before joining Citizen in 2018, where she took on roles including writing and editing news items in addition to anchoring Nipashe.
Her estimated monthly salary ranges between Ksh 300,000 to Ksh 600,000. Mashirima anchors the 7 PM news on Fridays with her segment “Longalonga” featuring language pundits.
Her simple yet elegant fashion style and focus on community stories have built strong audience loyalty among Kiswahili speakers, particularly in coastal and rural regions.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 300,000 – 600,000
- Key Show: Nipashe (Friday 7 PM)
13. Mbusii – Radio Jambo (KES 570K – 700K)
Daniel Githinji Mwangi, known as Mbusii, made a significant career move from Ghetto Radio to Radio Jambo, where his salary doubled while co-presenting the “Mbusi Na Lion Teke Teke” show.
Mbusii earns an estimated monthly salary ranging from KES 570,000 to KES 700,000 for the afternoon drive-time show alongside Liondee from 3pm to 7pm.
His decision to switch stations proved financially rewarding. The afternoon slot captures audiences during evening commute, a valuable demographic for advertisers targeting working professionals.
Mbusii’s energetic presentation style and music selection resonate with younger audiences, making him valuable to Radio Jambo’s strategy of dominating vernacular radio entertainment.
- Current Station: Radio Jambo (Radio Africa Group)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 570,000 – 700,000
- Key Show: Mbusii Na Lion Teke Teke (3pm-7pm)
14. Nimrod Taabu – Citizen TV (KES 600K – 750K)
Nimrod Taabu is a veteran journalist known for his compelling storytelling and in-depth investigative reports, previously working at KTN before joining NTV where he established himself as one of Kenya’s leading Kiswahili news anchors.
He later moved to Citizen TV, where he continues to be a prominent figure in Kiswahili journalism, having been recognized for his excellence by receiving a CNN Award in 2012.
His estimated salary is around Ksh 600,000 per month, though some estimates place it as high as KES 750,000 given his seniority and award-winning track record.
Beyond journalism, Nimrod is passionate about football and often refers to himself as a “herds boy,” reflecting his connection to rural life that resonates with his predominantly rural audience.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 600,000 – 750,000
- Key Show: Thursday Night Kiswahili News Bulletin
15. Ghost Mulee – Radio Jambo (KES 600K)
Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee co-hosts Radio Jambo’s breakfast show alongside Gidi Ogidi. The former Harambee Stars coach brings unique sports credibility to morning radio.
His transition from football coaching to radio demonstrates the value of personality and brand over traditional journalism credentials. Media houses increasingly recognize that audience connection matters more than formal qualifications.
Mulee’s chemistry with Gidi creates the compelling dynamic that makes Patanisho one of Kenya’s most-listened-to morning shows. Their reconciliation segments generate viral social media moments extending their reach beyond radio.
His salary of approximately KES 600,000 monthly reflects Radio Jambo’s investment in retaining talent that delivers consistent ratings during valuable morning drive time.
- Current Station: Radio Jambo (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 600,000
- Key Show: Patanisho Morning Show
16. Swaleh Mdoe – Citizen TV (KES 500K – 700K)
Swaleh Mdoe is a highly regarded Kiswahili news anchor and Managing Editor at Citizen TV, known for his Nipashe segment.
His dual role as anchor and managing editor justifies higher compensation than straight news presenters. Editorial responsibilities combined with on-air work increase his value significantly.
Swaleh has been with Citizen TV for years, building institutional knowledge and audience loyalty that makes him difficult to replace. Long tenure at leading stations typically results in salary growth through regular negotiations.
His authoritative delivery and deep understanding of Kenyan politics make him essential during major news events when audiences turn to trusted voices for context and analysis.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 500,000 – 700,000
- Key Show: Nipashe News Bulletin
17. Olive Burrows – Citizen TV (KES 350K – 700K)
Olive Burrows left NTV to join Royal Media Services in June 2024, ending her six-year stint with the CBD-based media house. She replaced Victoria Rubadiri, who departed for CNN International.
She has been a permanent fixture on Kenyan screens, building a profile for herself by hosting weekend news and presenting prime-time news. Burrows co-hosts Sunday Live with Jeff Koinange (when he’s available).
Her estimated salary ranges between Ksh 350,000 and Ksh 700,000 per month, reflecting her growing importance to Citizen TV’s English news programming.
Her move from NTV to Citizen TV came with significant salary increases, as Royal Media Services typically offers premium packages to poach established talent from competitors. Burrows officially joined the Citizen Weekend team on June 1, 2024.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services) – Joined June 2024
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 350,000 – 700,000
- Key Shows: Citizen Weekend, Sunday Live (co-host)
18. Sam Gituku – Citizen TV (KES 450K – 650K)
Sam Gituku is a sharp political and investigative journalist recognized for his analytical approach and in-depth reporting, having joined Citizen TV as a reporter and risen to become one of the station’s top anchors.
His estimated salary is around Ksh 450,000 to Ksh 650,000 per month, though this may vary with bonuses and allowances beyond base salary.
His investigative skills make him valuable during election cycles and major political stories. Journalists who break exclusive stories command premium compensation as they drive viewership and enhance station reputation.
Sam’s analytical approach appeals to educated audiences seeking depth beyond surface-level reporting. This demographic attracts higher-value advertisers willing to pay premium rates.
- Current Station: Citizen TV (Royal Media Services)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 450,000 – 650,000
- Key Role: Political & Investigative Anchor
19. Ali Manzu – KTN (KES 400K – 600K)
Ali Manzu’s eloquence in the Kiswahili language has won viewers’ hearts countrywide, having worked at media stations such as KBC and Radio Rahma before joining KTN.
The BA graduate from Moi University with a degree in Communication and Public Relations regularly appears on screen since joining KTN as a host at the 4 pm and 7 pm news.
His consistency and reliability make him a cornerstone of KTN’s Kiswahili programming. Long-serving journalists at major stations typically earn between KES 400,000 and KES 600,000 monthly.
Ali’s professionalism and deep Kiswahili language expertise position him as one of Kenya’s most respected vernacular news anchors, commanding respect from audiences and competitive compensation from employers.
- Current Station: KTN (Standard Media Group)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 400,000 – 600,000
- Key Shows: 4 PM & 7 PM Kiswahili News
20. Zubeidah Koome – KTN (KES 350K – 550K)
Zubeidah Koome is a senior news anchor at KTN who, for over 12 years, has been a key contributor to the station’s newsroom, particularly the Kiswahili desk.
Unlike most top presenters, Zubeida has never moved between media houses, having worked her way up after joining the Standard Media Group as an intern in 2009.
Her loyalty to one station demonstrates that career growth doesn’t always require jumping between employers. KTN has rewarded her consistency with regular salary increases over 12+ years.
The African Nazarene University alumnus has become one of the station’s senior anchors through dedication and consistent performance, earning competitive compensation without the drama of station-hopping.
- Current Station: KTN (Standard Media Group)
- Estimated Monthly Salary: KES 350,000 – 550,000
- Key Role: Senior Kiswahili News Anchor
Comparison Table: Top 20 Highest Paid Journalists in Kenya
| Rank | Name | Station | Monthly Salary (KES) | Primary Role | Key Show/Program |
| 1 | Jeff Koinange* | Citizen TV/Hot 96 | 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 | TV Host/Anchor | JKL, Sunday Live |
| 2 | Maina Kageni | Classic 105 | 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 | Radio Presenter | Breakfast Show |
| 3 | Linus Kaikai | Citizen TV | 1,200,000 | Director/Analyst | News Gang |
| 4 | Churchill | Classic 105/NTV | 1,200,000 | Radio Host/Comedian | Breakfast Show |
| 5 | Joe Ageyo | Nation Media | 800,000 – 1,500,000 | Editor/Anchor | Political Coverage |
| 6 | Yvonne Okwara | Citizen TV | 700,000 – 1,000,000 | News Anchor | Tonight, News Gang |
| 7 | Lilian Muli | Citizen TV | 600,000 – 800,000 | Senior Anchor | Prime Time News |
| 8 | Gidi Ogidi | Radio Jambo | 700,000 – 1,000,000 | Radio Presenter | Patanisho |
| 9 | Lulu Hassan | Citizen TV | 500,000 – 800,000 | News Anchor/Producer | Nipashe Wikendi |
| 10 | Rashid Abdalla | Citizen TV | 500,000 – 800,000 | News Anchor/Producer | Nipashe |
| 11 | Trevor Ombija | Citizen TV | 350,000 – 700,000 | News Anchor | Day Break, Prime News |
| 12 | Mashirima Kapombe | Citizen TV | 300,000 – 600,000 | Kiswahili Anchor | Nipashe (Friday) |
| 13 | Mbusii | Radio Jambo | 570,000 – 700,000 | Radio Presenter | Teke Teke Show |
| 14 | Nimrod Taabu | Citizen TV | 600,000 – 750,000 | Senior Anchor | Kiswahili News |
| 15 | Ghost Mulee | Radio Jambo | 600,000 | Radio Presenter | Patanisho |
| 16 | Swaleh Mdoe | Citizen TV | 500,000 – 700,000 | Managing Editor/Anchor | Nipashe |
| 17 | Olive Burrows | Citizen TV | 350,000 – 700,000 | News Anchor | Citizen Weekend |
| 18 | Sam Gituku | Citizen TV | 450,000 – 650,000 | Political Reporter | Investigations |
| 19 | Ali Manzu | KTN | 400,000 – 600,000 | News Anchor | Kiswahili News |
| 20 | Zubeidah Koome | KTN | 350,000 – 550,000 | Senior Anchor | Kiswahili Desk |
*Note: Jeff Koinange’s current status as of November 2025 is on extended leave with confirmed return expected.
Major Updates for 2026 – Victoria Rubadiri’s Move to CNN
Victoria Rubadiri left Citizen TV in April 2024 to join CNN International as Africa Correspondent for the “Connecting Africa” series. She is no longer with Citizen TV and should not be included in lists of current Citizen TV journalists.
As of 2026, Rubadiri works for CNN International based in Nairobi, earning an estimated KES 2-3 million monthly, significantly more than her previous Citizen TV salary of approximately KES 800,000.
What Media Houses Pay Best in Kenya
Royal Media Services dominates the top salary brackets. Citizen TV, Radio Jambo, Hot 96, and Classic 105 under Radio Africa Group employ most of Kenya’s highest-paid journalists.
Royal Media Services – The Industry Leader
RMS owns Citizen TV, which consistently appears in the highest-paid journalist lists. The media company pays journalists between Ksh 150,000 to Ksh 2 million per month on average.
Royal Media’s willingness to pay premium salaries has helped it poach top talent from competitors. Their strategy of investing in star power delivers high viewership that justifies the expense.
The company’s diverse portfolio across TV, radio, and digital platforms provides multiple revenue streams supporting generous compensation packages. Advertising revenue from their dominant market position funds competitive salaries.
Radio Africa Group – Premium Radio Compensation
Radio Africa Group, which owns Classic 105 and Kiss 100, pays some of Kenya’s highest radio presenter salaries. Maina Kageni and Churchill’s combined monthly salaries exceed KES 3 million.
The group’s strategy focuses on morning drive-time programming where they can charge premium advertising rates. This revenue justifies paying top talent to maintain dominant listenership positions.
Radio Africa’s success demonstrates that audio-only media can compete with television in talent compensation. Strong brands and loyal audiences generate sufficient advertising revenue for competitive salaries.
Standard Media Group – Competitive But Behind
KTN and The Standard newspaper pay competitively but generally trail Royal Media Services. Senior anchors like Ali Manzu and Zubeidah Koome earn well but less than equivalent positions at Citizen TV.
Standard Media’s financial challenges in recent years have limited their ability to match RMS’s aggressive talent acquisition. However, they maintain respectable compensation for experienced journalists.
The group’s strength lies in political coverage and investigative journalism. They attract journalists passionate about hard news rather than entertainment-focused programming.
Nation Media Group – The Talent Exodus Challenge
NTV has experienced significant talent departures to Royal Media Services. Victoria Rubadiri left for CNN International in April 2024, and Olive Burrows departed for Citizen TV in June 2024, highlighting the ongoing talent migration.
Despite these losses, NTV maintains competitive salary structures for remaining talent. They focus on developing younger journalists rather than engaging in expensive bidding wars for established stars.
Factors Beyond Base Salary for Journalists in Kenya
Understanding total compensation requires looking beyond monthly salaries to bonuses, endorsements, and side hustles that multiply earnings.
Bonuses and Performance Incentives
Most top journalists receive substantial annual bonuses. These performance-based payments can equal 2-3 months’ salary, significantly boosting annual compensation.
Election years bring special bonuses. Political coverage drives viewership spikes, and media houses reward journalists who deliver exceptional content during these critical periods.
Show ratings influence bonus calculations. Journalists whose programs consistently top viewership charts receive larger bonuses than those with average performance.
Brand Endorsements and Advertising
Popular journalists leverage their fame for endorsement deals. Companies pay premium rates for celebrity endorsements, with top journalists earning KES 500,000 to KES 2 million per campaign.
Maina Kageni’s endorsement portfolio includes multiple brands. His influential voice reaches affluent demographics that brands compete to access, justifying substantial endorsement fees.
Social media presence multiplies earning potential. Journalists with large Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook followings command higher endorsement rates than those with limited online reach.
Exclusive contracts sometimes limit endorsements. Media houses occasionally include clauses restricting outside commercial activities, trading exclusivity for higher base salaries.
Event Hosting and MC Work
Corporate events pay premium rates for celebrity journalists. Maina Kageni reportedly charges over KES 400,000 per event, while other top personalities command KES 100,000 to KES 300,000.
Wedding MC work provides steady side income. Popular radio personalities host high-end weddings, earning KES 50,000 to KES 150,000 per event.
Product launches and brand activations require celebrity hosts. Companies budget substantial amounts for journalists who can attract crowds and media attention to their events.
Some media houses take commissions on outside work. Contracts may stipulate that the station receives a percentage of earnings from external engagements.
Content Production and Business Ventures
Lulu Hassan and Rashid Abdalla run a production company creating content for Citizen TV. Their shows like “Maria” generate significant income beyond their anchoring salaries.
Churchill’s Laugh Industry extends beyond his radio work. The comedy production empire nurtures talent and produces content, creating multiple income streams independent of his presenter salary.
Maina Kageni’s diverse investments include real estate in Kenya, Florida, and Miami, plus a modeling agency in Lagos. Smart journalists invest media earnings into businesses generating passive income.
Some journalists run media consultancy firms. Their expertise in content creation, audience engagement, and brand building provides valuable services to corporations and aspiring media personalities.
Career Paths to High Journalism Salaries in Kenya
Understanding how top journalists reached their positions helps aspiring media professionals chart similar courses.
Educational Background That Matters
Most top journalists hold degrees in journalism, communication, or related fields. Lulu Hassan, Mashirima Kapombe, and Yvonne Okwara all graduated from Daystar University, Kenya’s premier journalism school.
International experience adds significant value. Jeff Koinange’s CNN background positioned him as Kenya’s most expensive journalist, demonstrating how global exposure enhances local market value.
Continuous professional development matters. Journalists who pursue postgraduate education, attend workshops, and update skills command higher salaries than those who rely solely on experience.
Specialized expertise increases earning potential. Political analysts like Joe Ageyo and Linus Kaikai earn more than general news anchors because their expertise proves invaluable during major political events.
Building Your Brand and Audience
Consistency across years builds audience loyalty. Journalists who remain visible over extended periods develop recognition that translates to negotiating power during salary discussions.
Social media amplifies traditional media presence. Top journalists maintain active Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook accounts, extending their influence beyond broadcast hours.
Controversial or bold personalities attract larger audiences. Maina Kageni’s provocative morning show style generates buzz that keeps listeners engaged and advertisers interested.
Professional reputation matters beyond popularity. Journalists known for accuracy, fairness, and integrity earn respect that justifies premium compensation from media houses valuing credibility.
Strategic Career Moves
Station-hopping at the right times accelerates salary growth. Yvonne Okwara, Mashirima Kapombe, Trevor Ombija, and Olive Burrows all moved to Citizen TV, likely receiving substantial raises.
Timing departures leverages competitive tension. When media houses compete for talent during major hires or launches, journalists negotiate from positions of strength.
Multiple skill sets increase value. Journalists who can anchor, report, produce, and edit prove more valuable than single-skilled personalities.
Loyalty sometimes pays less than mobility. While Zubeidah Koome stayed at KTN for over 12 years, many top earners achieved higher salaries through strategic moves between stations.
The Gender Pay Gap in Journalism in Kenya
Kenya’s journalism industry, like many sectors, exhibits salary disparities between male and female journalists despite comparable experience and skills.
Notable Female High Earners
Lilian Muli, Yvonne Okwara, Lulu Hassan, Mashirima Kapombe, and Olive Burrows demonstrate that women can command competitive salaries. However, the highest individual earners remain predominantly male.
Female journalists often excel in specific niches. Women dominate lifestyle, morning shows, and human interest programming, though political analysis remains male-dominated.
Breaking into top-tier salaries requires exceptional performance. Female journalists often work harder to achieve recognition equivalent to their male counterparts.
Challenges Female Journalists Face
Maternity leave impacts career progression. Women taking time off for children sometimes find themselves overtaken by male colleagues in promotion opportunities.
Appearance-based scrutiny affects women disproportionately. Female journalists face constant commentary about their looks, fashion, and personal lives that male colleagues rarely experience.
Age discrimination hits women harder. Male journalists like Jeff Koinange and Joe Ageyo maintain prime positions in their 50s, while female journalists face pressure about aging.
Work-life balance expectations differ. Women journalists managing families alongside demanding media careers navigate challenges their male counterparts with traditional family support structures avoid.
Progress Toward Equality
More women now lead newsrooms. Female editors and producers influence hiring and compensation decisions, potentially reducing systematic gender bias.
Media houses increasingly recognize female talent value. Lulu Hassan and Rashid Abdalla’s equal prominence demonstrates that audiences respond equally to male and female personalities.
Advocacy organizations push for pay equity. The Kenya Union of Journalists and other professional bodies increasingly address gender pay gaps in their negotiations.
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How to Negotiate Better Journalism Salaries in Kenya
Understanding negotiation strategies helps journalists maximize their earning potential throughout their careers.
Know Your Market Value
Research what comparable journalists earn. While exact salaries remain private, industry sources provide ranges that inform realistic salary expectations.
Track your viewership or listenership numbers. Demonstrating that your segments consistently deliver strong ratings provides concrete negotiating leverage.
Document your exclusive stories and awards. Tangible achievements beyond routine work justify requests for above-average compensation.
Understand your station’s financial health. Negotiating aggressive raises during financial difficulties proves futile, while profitable periods create opportunities.
Leverage Competing Offers
Other stations’ interest provides powerful negotiation leverage. Genuine competing offers force employers to match or lose talent to competitors.
Maintain professional relationships across media houses. Networking with editors and managers at multiple stations creates future opportunities even when not actively job hunting.
Don’t bluff about non-existent offers. Media industry connections run deep, and false claims about competing offers damage reputations permanently.
Time negotiations strategically. Contract renewal periods or when stations lose major talent create optimal negotiation windows.
Beyond Base Salary Negotiations
Negotiate comprehensive packages including bonuses, allowances, and benefits. Medical insurance, housing allowances, and car provisions significantly enhance total compensation.
Request performance-based incentives. Tying portions of compensation to measurable outcomes aligns your interests with the station’s success.
Negotiate outside work freedoms. Ability to take MC gigs, endorsements, or consultancy work can match or exceed base salary increases.
Consider non-monetary benefits. Prime show slots, production credits, or career development opportunities sometimes matter more than immediate salary increases.
Building Long-Term Career Value
Develop multiple revenue streams beyond employment. Jeff Koinange’s radio and TV combination, or Maina’s MC work, creates financial security beyond single station dependence.
Invest media earnings wisely. Real estate, businesses, and diversified portfolios ensure financial stability when media careers eventually end.
Maintain professional standards throughout. Scandals destroy careers quickly in media, while consistent professionalism builds lasting value.
Plan for career longevity. Broadcasting careers have finite lifespans, so preparation for transitions into production, consultancy, or other fields ensures continued income.
The Future of Journalism Salaries in Kenya
Understanding industry trends helps journalists and aspiring media professionals anticipate future opportunities and challenges.
Digital Media’s Impact
Social media platforms create new income opportunities. Journalists with strong digital followings monetize content through YouTube, podcasts, and creator programs.
Traditional media houses increasingly emphasize digital presence. Journalists delivering strong online engagement increasingly command premium compensation.
Digital-only journalists may challenge traditional media salaries. As online advertising grows, digital-native journalists might eventually match or exceed broadcast counterparts.
However, mainstream media still dominates. Citizen TV, Radio Jambo, and Classic 105 reach far larger audiences than most digital-only platforms, justifying higher salaries.
Economic Pressures on Media Houses
Kenya’s challenging economic environment affects advertising revenues. Reduced corporate spending on advertising creates pressure on media houses to control costs including salaries.
Media house consolidations may impact salaries. Mergers reduce competition for talent, potentially limiting journalists’ negotiating power during future contract discussions.
International content streaming affects local TV advertising. Netflix, Showmax, and YouTube compete for advertising budgets that previously went exclusively to local television.
Emerging Opportunities
Podcasting creates new revenue streams. Successful podcasters demonstrate that audio content beyond traditional radio can generate substantial income.
Content creation for brands offers lucrative alternatives. Corporations increasingly hire journalists for internal communications, branded content, and thought leadership at competitive rates.
International opportunities expand for top talent. Victoria Rubadiri’s move to CNN International demonstrates that Kenyan journalists can compete globally, with significantly higher salaries than local positions.
Specialized journalism commands premium rates. Data journalism, investigative reporting, and technical expertise in areas like finance or technology create niche high-paying opportunities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the highest paid journalist in Kenya?
Jeff Koinange is the highest paid journalist in Kenya, earning over KES 2 million monthly from Citizen TV and Hot 96 combined. His salary reportedly ranges between KES 2 million and KES 2.5 million, excluding bonuses and endorsement deals.
Jeff’s international experience at CNN and his ability to deliver consistent ratings across multiple platforms justify this premium compensation. However, as of November 2025, Koinange has been on extended leave from Citizen TV since August 2025, though he remains with Royal Media Services.
How much does Maina Kageni earn per month?
Maina Kageni earns between KES 1.5 million and KES 2 million per month from Classic 105, making him Kenya’s highest-paid radio presenter. In a conversation with Kamene Goro, he confirmed earning over KES 2 million monthly. His breakfast show with Churchill dominates morning radio ratings, justifying his substantial salary.
Which media house pays journalists the best salaries?
Royal Media Services pays the best journalist salaries in Kenya. Citizen TV, Radio Jambo, and other RMS properties employ most of the country’s highest-paid journalists, with salaries ranging from KES 150,000 to over KES 2 million monthly. Their dominant market position generates advertising revenue that funds competitive compensation packages.
Do female journalists earn as much as male journalists in Kenya?
While female journalists like Lilian Muli, Yvonne Okwara, Lulu Hassan, and Olive Burrows earn competitive salaries, a gender pay gap exists. The highest individual earners remain predominantly male, and female journalists often work harder to achieve equivalent recognition. However, progress continues, with more women securing top positions and competitive compensation.
How much do entry-level journalists earn in Kenya?
Entry-level journalists in Kenya typically earn between KES 30,000 and KES 60,000 monthly depending on the media house and their qualifications. Smaller stations and newspapers pay closer to KES 30,000, while major media houses like Citizen TV, NTV, and KTN start graduate trainees around KES 50,000 to KES 60,000 monthly.
Can journalists become millionaires in Kenya?
Yes, top journalists in Kenya can become millionaires through combined salaries, endorsements, MC work, and business ventures. Jeff Koinange, Maina Kageni, and Churchill earn multi-million shilling packages annually. Smart investment of media earnings into real estate and businesses helps journalists build substantial wealth beyond their broadcasting careers.
What determines how much a journalist earns in Kenya?
Journalist salaries depend on viewership/listenership ratings, years of experience, educational background, the media house they work for, their negotiating skills, and additional income from endorsements and events. Journalists who consistently deliver strong audience numbers and possess specialized expertise like political analysis earn significantly more than general reporters.
Do Kiswahili journalists earn less than English journalists in Kenya?
Not necessarily. Top Kiswahili journalists like Lulu Hassan, Rashid Abdalla, Swaleh Mdoe, and Nimrod Taabu earn competitive salaries comparable to English journalists. However, Kiswahili journalists often have lower ceilings because English programming typically attracts higher-value advertising targeting urban, affluent demographics.
What happened to Victoria Rubadiri?
Victoria Rubadiri left Citizen TV in April 2024 to join CNN International as Africa Correspondent for the “Connecting Africa” series. She is now based in Nairobi working for CNN, earning an estimated KES 2-3 million monthly, significantly more than her previous Citizen TV salary of approximately KES 800,000. Her departure represents one of the most significant moves by a Kenyan journalist to international media in recent years.
Why has Jeff Koinange been absent from TV?
Jeff Koinange has been absent from Citizen TV screens since August 2025. While speculation arose about his departure, Royal Media Services has confirmed he was not fired and remains with the organization. In October 2025, Koinange himself stated he would return “very soon,” though his exact return date remains unconfirmed as of November 2025.