Citizen TV News Anchors in Kenya: Salaries, Careers, Scandals & More

Citizen TV remains the most-watched television network in Kenya, thanks to its team of talented and charismatic news anchors. These media personalities have built impressive careers, with some embroiled in controversies while others continue to dominate the airwaves with their professionalism.

Below, we explore the profiles of some of the most prominent Citizen TV news anchors in 2025, their career journeys, personal lives, and more.

List of Citizen TV News Anchors (2025)

As of February 2025, Citizen TV boasts a dynamic team of news anchors:

• Lilian Muli – A seasoned news anchor known for her captivating delivery and extensive industry experience.
• Jeff Koinange – A veteran journalist renowned for his engaging interview style. He anchors Sunday Live and hosts JKL.
• Yvonne Okwara-Matole – A respected journalist and key panelist on News Gang, known for her in-depth political analysis.
• Swaleh Mdoe – A highly regarded Kiswahili news anchor and Managing Editor at Citizen TV, known for his Nipashe segment.
• Lulu Hassan – A celebrated Kiswahili news anchor who co-hosts Nipashe Wikendi alongside her husband, Rashid Abdalla.
• Mashirima Kapombe – A distinguished Kiswahili news anchor recognized for her eloquence and engaging reporting.
• Trevor Ombija – A fast-rising news anchor known for his authoritative delivery and co-hosting Day Break.
• Olive Burrows – A polished prime-time news anchor admired for her calm and professional demeanor.
• Jamila Mohamed – The Managing Editor at Citizen TV, with vast experience in journalism and newsroom management.
• Mwanahamisi Hamadi – A respected Swahili news anchor and producer, best known for her show Mwanamke Bomba.
• Nimrod Taabu – A highly experienced journalist known for his compelling storytelling and deep investigative reports.
• Sam Gituku – A sharp political and investigative journalist recognized for his analytical approach and in-depth reporting.
• Ayub Abdikadir – A news anchor who hosts the DayBreak show, engaging in discussions on current affairs and interviews with various guests.
• Rashid Abdalla – A distinguished Swahili news anchor and content producer at Citizen TV.

These anchors, among others, contribute to the station's reputation for delivering quality journalism.

1. Lilian Muli

Role: Senior news anchor, Citizen TV

Career: Lilian Muli is a senior news anchor at Citizen TV, widely recognized for her engaging delivery and extensive experience in the industry. Born on May 4, 1982, she attended Loreto Convent Msongari for her secondary education before pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Communication and News Casting at Daystar University. She later obtained a Master’s degree in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi.

Muli began her journalism career at Kenya Television Network (KTN) in 2005 before joining Citizen TV in 2011. She has hosted various shows, including SlimPossible, One on One, and Fashion Watch.

Her personal life has often made headlines, particularly her divorce from ex-husband Moses Njuguna Kanene in 2016. She has two children, including a son with football boss Jared Nevaton.

Lifestyle: Outside her professional life, she enjoys traveling and often shares moments of her personal life on social media. Lilian leads a comfortable lifestyle, owning a luxurious home and driving high-end vehicles. She maintains a significant presence on social media platforms, where she engages with her audience regularly.

Lilian is known for her elegant fashion sense, often donning designer outfits during her broadcasts. She frequently travels for both work and leisure, sharing glimpses of her journeys with her followers.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 700,000 – 1,000,000 per month.

2. Jeff Koinange

Role: Prime-time news anchor (Sunday Live), host of JKL

Career: Jeff Koinange is one of the most well-known news anchors in Kenya. Born on January 7, 1966, he has worked at major global networks, including CNN, Reuters, ABC, and NBC. Koinange holds an Associate Degree in Broadcast Technology and Management from Kingsborough Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from New York University.

His career has seen both highs and controversies, including his controversial 2007 CNN report on the Niger Delta crisis, which led to his exit from the network. He has worked with K24 and KTN before joining Citizen TV, where he currently anchors Sunday Live and hosts the popular JKL show.

Jeff Koinange is married to Shaila Koinange, a Kenyan of Asian descent. The couple first met in 1986 and married in 1998. They have a son named Jamal Mbiyu Koinange, born in 2007.

Lifestyle: Outside of his journalism career, Jeff has a passion for literature and has authored his autobiography, "Through My African Eyes." He owns a lavish home and has a collection of luxury vehicles. With a substantial following on social media, Jeff often shares insights into his professional endeavors and personal interests. He is known for his classic fashion sense, frequently appearing in well-tailored suits. His work has taken him across the globe, and he often shares his travel experiences with his audience.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 2,000,000 per month.

3. Yvonne Okwara

Role: News anchor (Tonight), panelist on News Gang

Career: Yvonne Okwara joined Citizen TV in 2018 as part of its newsroom revamp. She began her media career as a child presenter and later worked at Q FM, Nation Media Group, and KTN.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Electronic Media and has been a key interviewer in presidential debates. She currently hosts Tonight on Thursdays and is part of News Gang, where top Citizen TV journalists discuss pressing national issues.

As of February 2025, Yvonne Okwara is no longer married. She separated from her husband, Andrew Matole, in early 2024 after ten years of marriage. Reports indicate that differences over starting a family contributed to their separation.

Lifestyle: She maintains a healthy lifestyle, often sharing her fitness journey with her followers. Yvonne's fashion sense is both professional and stylish, reflecting her authoritative presence on screen. She occasionally travels for work and leisure, sharing her experiences on social media.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 900,000 per month.

4. Swaleh Mdoe

Role: Kiswahili news anchor (Nipashe), Managing Editor

Career: Swaleh Mdoe has been with Citizen TV since 2007, serving as Managing Editor and Kiswahili News Anchor. He previously worked at Nation Media Group and KTN before joining Royal Media Services. Mdoe anchors Nipashe on Monday nights and is best known for his insightful commentary and storytelling.

Despite his substantial earnings, Mdoe faced financial challenges in 2018, leading him to consider selling one of his kidneys to alleviate his debts. Additionally, in 2014, he was involved in a legal dispute when a woman filed a case seeking child support, alleging that Mdoe was the father of her child.

Lifestyle: He leads a comfortable lifestyle, with investments in real estate. Swaleh is respected in the media industry and has a modest presence on social media. He prefers traditional attire, often seen in kanzus and other cultural garments during broadcasts. His travels are primarily work-related, focusing on stories that impact the community.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 300,000 to Ksh 750,000 per month.

5. Lulu Hassan

Role: Kiswahili news anchor (Nipashe Wikendi)

Career: Lulu Hassan is one of Kenya’s top Kiswahili news anchors. Before entering the media industry, she trained in cabin crew management and human resources. She worked at Radio Salaam before moving to KTN and later Citizen TV. She co-hosts Nipashe Wikendi alongside her husband, Rashid Abdalla, making them Kenya’s first-ever couple to co-anchor a prime-time news bulletin together.

She co-owns Jiffy Pictures with her husband, Rashid Abdalla. This production company is known for producing popular Swahili telenovelas, like Maza, Maria, Zora, Sultana, and Huba, contributing to their combined income.

Lifestyle: She leads a comfortable lifestyle, with investments in the media industry. With a significant following on social media, Lulu often shares insights into her work and family life. She is known for her elegant and modest fashion sense, often showcasing traditional African wear. Lulu enjoys traveling with her family, both for work and leisure.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 300,000 to 600,000 per month.

6. Mashirima Kapombe

Role: Kiswahili news anchor, Citizen TV

Career: Mashirima Kapombe is a respected Kiswahili news anchor at Citizen TV. She holds a degree in Communication and Electronic Media from Daystar University and has worked at KBC, NTV, and KTN before joining Citizen TV. She is known for her eloquence and engaging delivery.

Lifestyle: She leads a modest lifestyle, focusing on her career and philanthropy. With a growing presence on social media, she shares stories that inspire and educate her audience. Mashirima's fashion style is simple yet elegant, often opting for professional attire during broadcasts. She enjoys traveling within Kenya, exploring cultural sites and engaging with diverse communities.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 300,000 – 600,000 per month.

7. Trevor Ombija

Role: News anchor, co-host on Day Break

Career: Trevor Ombija is a rising star in Kenyan media, known for his deep voice and authoritative delivery. He joined 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 breakup after a decade-long relationship became a trending topic in Kenya.

Lifestyle: He leads a comfortable lifestyle, with investments in real estate. With a substantial following on social media, Trevor engages his audience with insights into his professional and personal life. He is known for his sharp fashion sense, often seen in well-fitted suits during broadcasts. Trevor enjoys traveling, both locally and internationally, often sharing his experiences with his followers.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 350,000 and Ksh 700,000 per month.

8. Olive Burrows

Role: Prime-time news anchor, Citizen TV

Career: Olive Burrows is another respected journalist at Citizen TV. She began her career at Capital FM before transitioning to television, where she gained recognition for her poised and professional demeanor. She has conducted interviews with high-profile figures and is known for her calm yet firm interview style. She currently co-anchors prime-time news and contributes to in-depth news analysis segments.

Lifestyle: She leads a modest lifestyle, focusing on her career and personal development. With a significant following on social media, Olive engages her audience with thoughtful insights and discussions. She is known for her elegant fashion sense, often opting for classic and professional attire during broadcasts. Olive enjoys traveling and has shared experiences from her journeys, both for work and leisure.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 800,000 per month.

9. Jamila Mohamed

Role: Managing Editor, Citizen TV

Career: Jamila Mohamed joined NTV in 2002 as a news editor and Kiswahili news anchor. She served as the Manager for Programming and Content Development at NTV Kenya before moving to Citizen TV, where she currently holds the position of Managing Editor. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism and Media Studies and a Master's Degree in International Conflict Management, both from the University of Nairobi.

Lifestyle: She leads a comfortable lifestyle, with investments in real estate. With a respectable presence on social media, Jamila shares insights into her professional journey and industry developments. She is known for her modest fashion sense, often wearing traditional attire during broadcasts. Jamila travels frequently for work, attending conferences and workshops related to journalism.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 800,000 per month.

10. Mwanahamisi Hamadi

Role: Swahili News Anchor and Producer at Citizen TV

Career: Mwanahamisi Hamadi is a distinguished Swahili news anchor and producer at Citizen TV, renowned for her eloquence in Kiswahili and her bright smile. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nairobi and has over a decade of experience in journalism.

In April 2015, Mwanahamisi, along with other reporters, faced suspension over allegations of receiving money from a political figure to suppress an embarrassing story. The suspension was later lifted.

Mwanahamisi produces and hosts the "Mwanamke Bomba" segment, which has been recognized for empowering women. Additionally, she hosts the health show "Siha na Maumbile" and the Thursday segment "Sema Na Citizen." Her fluency in Swahili has also earned her a spot on Radio Citizen FM, where she presents the "Raha Karaha" show every Friday night.

Lifestyle: She leads a modest lifestyle, focusing on her career and community service. With a growing presence on social media, she engages her audience with stories that matter. Mwanahamisi's fashion style is simple yet elegant, often opting for traditional attire during broadcasts. She enjoys traveling within Kenya, exploring stories that impact local communities.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 600,000 per month.

11. Nimrod Taabu

Role: Senior News Anchor, Citizen TV

Career: Nimrod Taabu is a veteran journalist known for his compelling storytelling and in-depth investigative reports. He previously worked 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. He has been recognized for his excellence in journalism, notably receiving a CNN Award in 2012.

Lifestyle: Beyond his journalism career, Nimrod is passionate about football and often refers to himself as a "herds boy," reflecting his connection to rural life.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 750,000 per month.

12. Sam Gituku

Role: News Anchor & Investigative Journalist, Citizen TV

Career: Sam Gituku is a sharp political and investigative journalist recognized for his analytical approach and in-depth reporting. He joined Citizen TV as a reporter and has since risen to become one of the station’s top anchors. Known for his incisive interviews and data-driven analysis, he plays a crucial role in shaping political discourse in Kenya. He holds a degree in Communication and Journalism and has undergone specialized training in investigative journalism.

Lifestyle: In May 2019, Sam married his longtime girlfriend and colleague, Ivy Waitherero, in a ceremony held at Deliverance Church, Langata. Ivy serves as a news director at Citizen TV. The couple's wedding was attended by notable media personalities, including Joe Ageyo and Waihiga Mwaura.

Sam is the son of Ngari Gituku, who served as the private secretary to former President Mwai Kibaki. He maintains a relatively private personal life, with limited public information about his family.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 600,000 per month.

13. Ayub Abdikadir

Role: News Anchor and Political Journalist at Citizen TV

Career: Ayub Abdikadir's journalism journey began in Wajir, where he developed a passion for storytelling. He pursued a Bachelor's degree in Communication and Journalism at Mount Kenya University, overcoming financial challenges through side hustles and support from mentors. His dedication led to internships at Ebru TV and K24 TV, where he gained valuable experience.

In August 2022, Ayub joined Citizen TV, quickly gaining recognition for his incisive interviews and political reporting. Notably, his interview with former IEBC Chairman Wafula Chebukati showcased his commitment to journalistic integrity.

Lifestyle: Ayub maintains a balanced lifestyle, focusing on his career and personal interests. He is known for his sharp dressing style, often appearing in well-tailored suits during broadcasts. Beyond journalism, Ayub is a talented singer, occasionally sharing his musical pursuits with his audience.

He is active on social media platforms, engaging with viewers and sharing insights into his professional journey. While he keeps his personal life private, Ayub's dedication to his craft and community is evident in his work and public interactions.

Salary: Estimated to be between Ksh. 300,000 and Ksh. 500,000 per month.

14. Rashid Abdalla

Role: Kiswahili News Anchor and Scriptwriter

Career: Rashid Abdalla began his media career in 2006 as a radio presenter at Radio Salaam. He later transitioned to QTV and subsequently to NTV, where he honed his skills as a Swahili news anchor. In 2018, following Kanze Dena's departure to the Presidential Service Communication Unit, Rashid joined Citizen TV.

He co-anchors Nipashe Wikendi alongside his wife, Lulu Hassan, marking the first instance in Kenya where a married couple presents news together.

Beyond anchoring, Rashid is an accomplished scriptwriter and has been involved in various television productions.

Lifestyle: Rashid leads a comfortable lifestyle, balancing his professional responsibilities with family life. He and Lulu are blessed with three children: two sons, Jibran and Irfan, and a daughter whose name they have kept private. The family resides in a well-appointed home in Nairobi and also maintains a residence in Kwale County, reflecting their coastal roots.

Rashid has a penchant for luxury vehicles, with a notable example being a black Toyota Land Cruiser V8. He is known for his elegant sense of style, often seen in well-tailored suits during broadcasts.

On social media, Rashid shares glimpses of his family life and work, maintaining a connection with his audience. His travels are often related to work assignments and family visits, especially to the coastal region.

Salary: Estimated at Ksh 550,000 per month.

How to Become a News Anchor at Citizen TV

Aspiring to join the ranks of Citizen TV's esteemed anchors? Consider the following steps:

• Education: Pursue a degree in journalism, mass communication, or a related field.
• Experience: Gain practical experience through internships and roles in media houses.
• Networking: Build connections within the industry to learn about opportunities.
• Skill Development: Hone skills in public speaking, writing, and on-camera presence.
• Continuous Learning: Stay updated with current events and advancements in media technology.

Many of today's top anchors started in junior roles and progressed through dedication and continuous improvement.

Conclusion

Citizen TV remains the leading news network in Kenya, thanks to its exceptional team of anchors who bring news to millions of viewers. While some have faced personal and professional challenges, their resilience and commitment to journalism continue to make them household names in Kenya.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Citizen TV News Anchors

Who is the highest-paid news anchor at Citizen TV?

Jeff Koinange is among the highest-paid news anchors at Citizen TV, with an estimated monthly salary of around Ksh 2,000,000.

Are there any married couples anchoring news together on Citizen TV?

Yes, Lulu Hassan and her husband, Rashid Abdalla, co-anchor the Kiswahili news segment Nipashe Wikendi, making them Kenya’s first-ever couple to co-anchor a prime-time news bulletin together.

Which Citizen TV anchors have faced public controversies?

Several anchors have been in the public eye due to personal matters:

1. Lilian Muli's divorce from Moses Njuguna Kanene in 2016.
2. Jeff Koinange's controversial 2007 CNN report on the Niger Delta crisis.
3. Swaleh Mdoe's financial challenges in 2018, where he considered selling a kidney to settle debts.
4. Trevor Ombija's publicized breakup after a decade-long relationship.

What are the educational backgrounds of Citizen TV news anchors?

Many anchors have diverse educational qualifications:

1. Lilian Muli holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication and News Casting from Daystar University and a Master’s in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi.
2. Jeff Koinange earned an Associate Degree in Broadcast Technology and Management from Kingsborough Community College and a Bachelor’s in Broadcast Journalism from New York University.
3. Yvonne Okwara has a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Electronic Media.

Who are the current prime-time news anchors on Citizen TV?

As of February 2025, the prime-time news anchors include:

1. Lilian Muli
2. Jeff Koinange
3. Yvonne Okwara-Matole
4. Trevor Ombija
5. Olive Burrows

What other ventures are Citizen TV anchors involved in?

Beyond news anchoring:

1. Lulu Hassan co-owns Jiffy Pictures with her husband, Rashid Abdalla. The production company is known for producing popular Swahili telenovelas like Maria, Zora, and Sultana.
2. Jeff Koinange hosts the popular talk show JKL on Citizen TV.

How can I contact Citizen TV's newsroom?

For news-related issues, you can contact Citizen TV's newsroom at +254-20-675019 or +254-722-209420.

Who is the managing editor at Citizen TV?

As of February 2025, Jamila Mohamed serves as the Managing Editor at Citizen TV.

Which Citizen TV anchors did not study journalism?

Some anchors pursued different fields before transitioning to journalism:

Yvonne Okwara studied Zoology, Botany, and Chemistry at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

What are some of the popular shows produced by Jiffy Pictures?

Jiffy Pictures, co-owned by Lulu Hassan and Rashid Abdalla, has produced popular Swahili telenovelas such as Maria, Zora, Sultana, and Huba.