Top 10 Highest Paid Presenters in Kenya in 2026: Salaries, Biography and Net Worth

• By Eddah Nafula

• 5594

• Last updated Jan 4, 2026

1. Maina Kageni – Classic 105 FM

Maina isn’t just a presenter. He’s an institution. With a career spanning over two decades, Maina has built a brand that blends cheeky humor, controversial topics, and effortless charm. He started out at Capital FM in the late 90s before moving to Classic 105, where his morning show became a juggernaut.

Estimated Salary: KES 1.5M–2M (some reports say even up to 3M)

His chemistry with co-host Churchill and ability to keep listeners glued through relatable, sometimes explosive conversations, makes him a top earner in the game.

2. Daniel “Churchill” Ndambuki – Classic 105 FM

You know him from Churchill Show, but Ndambuki wears many hats. As a co-host on Classic 105’s morning show, he’s also a businessman, content creator, and mentor to many upcoming comedians. His presence on-air is more than just jokes—he’s also deeply insightful and emotionally intelligent.

Estimated Salary: KES 1.2M–1.3M

Churchill’s combination of entertainment and heart has helped shape Kenyan comedy and radio alike.

3. Jeff Koinange – Citizen TV & Hot 96 FM

Jeff is a legend in broadcast journalism, not just in Kenya but internationally. He worked for CNN and K24 before becoming the face of JKL Live on Citizen TV. Known for his deep voice, storytelling, and “Oh my!” catchphrase, Jeff blends class with charisma.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 2M

He brings global experience to Kenyan screens, and his interviews are must-watch TV for many households.

4. Joseph “Gidi” Oyoo – Radio Jambo

Before he was a radio king, Gidi was half of the popular music duo Gidi Gidi Maji Maji. After transitioning from music to media, he found his voice again as a morning show host on Radio Jambo. His “Patanisho” segment (reuniting lovers) is pure gold for listeners.

Estimated Salary: KES 780K–1M

What sets Gidi apart is how he connects emotionally with his audience—he’s relatable, humorous, and real.

5. Lilian Muli – Citizen TV

Lilian’s journey in the media began with KTN before she moved to Citizen TV, where she has been anchoring prime-time news for over a decade. Known for her grace, elegance, and sometimes viral moments, she’s built a loyal following.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 1M

Beyond news, she has hosted shows like SlimPossible and is admired for her openness about life, motherhood, and career challenges.

6. Linus Kaikai – Citizen TV

Linus is a media strategist and senior editor with a career steeped in political reporting and newsroom leadership. He previously served as Managing Editor at NTV and is known for bold opinions and strong journalistic ethics.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 1M

He’s not flashy, but Linus is influential behind the scenes. Many respect his leadership and vision for Kenyan journalism.

7. Yvonne Okwara – Citizen TV

Yvonne's journalism style is assertive, articulate, and deeply researched. She started at KBC, grew her profile at KTN, and is now one of the top anchors at Citizen. Her Explainer segment is loved for breaking down complex issues in a clear, digestible way.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 900K

She's one of the few journalists who combine depth, elegance, and fearlessness in the same breath.

8. Willy M. Tuva – Radio Citizen & Mambo Mseto

Mzazi Tuva is a household name in the East African entertainment scene. He’s not just a presenter—he’s a cultural connector who promotes Kenyan and Tanzanian artists through his show Mambo Mseto. He began his career in community radio before breaking into the mainstream.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 800K

Willy’s voice, energy, and passion for music make him a favorite for both Gen Z and millennials.

9. Victoria Rubadiri – Citizen TV

Victoria is more than just a news anchor—she’s an award-winning journalist who brings empathy and intelligence to every screen she graces. She’s worked with NTV and CNBC Africa and is known for her crisp delivery and calm confidence.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 800K

Her recent stint as a fellow at the BBC gave her international exposure, making her one of the most polished anchors on Kenyan TV.

10. Joe Ageyo – NTV

Joe is the face of analytical journalism. With years at KTN and now NTV, he has hosted countless political shows and interviews. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp mind, Joe also serves as a managing editor.

Estimated Salary: Around KES 850K

He's respected not just as a presenter but as a mentor to younger journalists and a thought leader in media strategy.

Honorable Mentions: Radio Voices to Watch

Some presenters didn’t make the top 10 list but are still earning big:

1. Gatonye wa Mbugua (Kameme FM): ~KES 1.25M
2. Alex Mwakideu (Milele FM): ~KES 800K
3. Muthee Kiengei (Kameme FM): ~KES 450K
4. Fred Arocho (Radio 47): ~KES 550K–600K

All proof that you don’t have to be on national TV to earn big—vernacular and niche stations pay well if you bring in the listeners.

Real-World Lessons from Kenya’s Top Presenters

Here’s what this list reveals about the media game in Kenya:

• Build trust and consistency: Every name on this list has been in the game for years. There are no overnight successes here.
• Diversify your skills: From TV to radio to digital, most top presenters wear many hats.
• Connect emotionally: What keeps audiences coming back isn’t just voice or looks—it’s how these presenters make them feel.
• Brand matters: Every one of them has a distinct voice, style, and lane. You remember them because they’re not trying to be anyone else.

Highest Paid Kenyan Presenters' Net Worth Estimates 

Final Thoughts

These salaries aren’t just numbers. They represent years of grit, late nights, missed weekends, and an unwavering dedication to their craft. And while most of us might never earn KES 1 million a month, the lesson here is powerful:

You can build a name, an audience, and a livelihood by staying true to your voice and consistently showing up.

Whether you're starting a podcast, working behind the scenes, or dreaming of the big stage, remember—these giants started somewhere too. It’s not just about being loud; it’s about being authentic and undeniably good at what you do.

So if you’ve got the passion and patience, who says you can’t be the next Maina or Victoria?