Swaleh Mdoe: Salary, Wife, Biography, Age, Tribe, Net Worth & More

Swaleh Mdoe is a renowned Kenyan journalist and one of the most respected Swahili news anchors in the country. Known for his iconic segment “Tafakari ya Babu” on Citizen TV, his storytelling skills and mastery of the Swahili language have made him a household name across Kenya.

From humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated figure in media, here’s everything you need to know about Swaleh Mdoe’s life story, education, career, family, and net worth.

Facts About Swaleh Mdoe

• Full Name: Swaleh Mdoe
• Date of Birth: May 23, 1968
• Age: 56 years (as of 2025)
• Place of Birth: Tudor, Mombasa County, Kenya
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Tribe: Not publicly disclosed
• Occupation: Journalist, News Anchor, Author
• Years Active: 1991 – present
• Marital Status: Married
• Children: Yes
• Net Worth: Estimated in millions (KES)

Swaleh Mdoe Biography

Swaleh Mdoe was born on May 23, 1968, in Tudor, Mombasa County. He attended Tudor Day School, where he completed his Kenya Certificate of Education (KCE).

Passionate about media, he later enrolled at the Media Institute, earning a Diploma in Human Rights and Media. To further his education, Swaleh joined Malaspina University College in Canada (now Vancouver Island University), graduating in 2005 with a Bachelor of Communication in Media Studies.

Swaleh Mdoe Career

Mdoe began his journalism career in 1991, gaining experience in both print and electronic media. He worked with various organizations, including Kenya Times, Standard Newspapers, The Message, Weekly Mail, BBC, Nation TV, and KTN. In 1999, he joined Nation TV (now NTV) as a news anchor, serving until 2001. He then moved to KTN, where he held the position of Kiswahili News Editor and anchor until 2007. Since then, Mdoe has been with Royal Media Services' Citizen TV, serving as the Managing Editor and Swahili news anchor.

Swaleh Mdoe Salary

Swaleh Mdoe earns an estimated Ksh 300,000 to Ksh 750,000 per month.

Swaleh Mdoe Wife

Swaleh Mdoe maintains a private personal life. He is married and has children, though specific details about his family are not widely publicized.

Swaleh Mdoe Age

Swaleh Mdoe was born on May 23, 1968. As of 2025, he is 57 years old.

Swaleh Mdoe Net Worth

​Swaleh Mdoe's net worth remains undisclosed.

Swaleh Mdoe Tribe

Swaleh Mdoe's Tribe remains undisclosed.

Tafakari ya Babu

One of Swaleh Mdoe's most popular contributions is the "Tafakari ya Babu" segment on Citizen TV. In this feature, he narrates moral stories, proverbs, and thought-provoking reflections, which have become a favorite for many viewers. His deep, captivating voice and storytelling talent make this segment stand out on Kenyan television.

Swaleh Mdoe Books

In addition to his work as a journalist, Swaleh Mdoe is also an accomplished author. His books focus on Swahili literature, sports, politics, and media. Some of his notable publications include:

• Fumbo La Hadaa (2005)
• Nachora Kwa Maneno (2009)

• Michezo Yetu (2010)

• Tafakari Ya Babu (2011)

• Mwanasiasa (2016)
• Mpira wa Kilo na Wenzake (2018)

• TV News Anchoring: A Practical Guide to Professional News Casting (2019)

Swaleh Mdoe Awards and Achievements

Swaleh Mdoe’s work has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including:

• KUJ Journalist of the Year (Kiswahili) – 2003 and 2004
• Chaguo La Teeniz (CHAT) Awards – Favorite TV Male Presenter – 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
• Star of Excellence Award (SOEA) – Daystar University (2004)
• Goodwill Ambassador of Culture – Jamhuri Peace Foundation (2009)

Swaleh Mdoe Controversies

In 2018, Mdoe made headlines when he announced plans to sell his kidney for about Ksh 2.5 million to address financial challenges. Fortunately, he managed to resolve his financial issues without proceeding with the sale.

Conclusion

Swaleh Mdoe's journey from the streets of Tudor, Mombasa, to becoming one of Kenya’s most celebrated Swahili news anchors is nothing short of inspiring. With over three decades of experience in journalism, his storytelling talent, professionalism, and dedication to the Swahili language have left a lasting impact on the media industry.

Whether through his iconic “Tafakari ya Babu” segment, his published books, or his remarkable career on screen, Swaleh continues to educate, entertain, and inspire millions of Kenyans. His legacy is proof that passion, hard work, and authenticity can truly take you to the top.

FAQ About Swaleh Mdoe

1. Who is Swaleh Mdoe?

Swaleh Mdoe is a veteran Kenyan journalist, author, and Swahili news anchor best known for his work at Citizen TV, where he serves as the Managing Editor of Swahili news. He is also the creator and presenter of the popular news segment Tafakari ya Babu.

2. What is Swaleh Mdoe's age?

Swaleh Mdoe was born on May 23, 1968, which makes him 56 years old as of 2025.

3. What is Swaleh Mdoe's tribe?

Swaleh Mdoe's Tribe remains undisclosed.

4. Is Swaleh Mdoe married?

Yes, Swaleh Mdoe is married and has children, but he keeps details about his family private and away from the public eye.

5. What is Swaleh Mdoe's net worth?

Swaleh Mdoe’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, but as one of Kenya’s top Swahili news anchors, it is estimated to be in the millions of Kenyan shillings, earned through his media career, book sales, and endorsements.

6. What is Swaleh Mdoe's salary?

Swaleh Mdoe is reported to earn a monthly salary ranging from Ksh 350,000 KSh 750,000 from his role at Citizen TV, making him one of the highest-paid journalists in Kenya.

7. Which TV station does Swaleh Mdoe work for?

Swaleh Mdoe works for Citizen TV Kenya, where he is the Managing Editor for Swahili news and a long-time Swahili news anchor.

8. Has Swaleh Mdoe written any books?

Yes, Swaleh Mdoe is an accomplished author with several books to his name, including Fumbo La Hadaa, Nachora Kwa Maneno, Michezo Yetu, Tafakari Ya Babu, Mwanasiasa, and Mpira wa Kilo na Wenzake. He also authored TV News Anchoring: A Practical Guide to Professional News Casting.

9. What is 'Tafakari ya Babu' by Swaleh Mdoe?

Tafakari ya Babu is a popular storytelling segment on Citizen TV, created and presented by Swaleh Mdoe, where he shares thought-provoking Swahili proverbs and moral lessons. He also published a book titled Tafakari ya Babu expanding on these stories.

10. Has Swaleh Mdoe faced any controversies?

Yes, Swaleh Mdoe has faced a few public controversies, including a highly publicized case in 2018 when he announced plans to sell his kidney due to financial difficulties, sparking nationwide discussions.