If you ever studied History in high school or took Social Studies in primary school, you probably remember this common exam question: “What is the most reliable source of news and updates in Kenya?” The answer? Radio! The reasoning? Even illiterate people can rely on it, especially with the rise of vernacular stations.
Radio plays a significant role in society, and that cannot be overlooked. It all began with the discovery of electromagnetic waves by Heinrich Hertz in the late 19th century, paving the way for Guglielmo Marconi’s pioneering work in wireless telegraphy. Marconi’s successful transmission of radio signals across the Atlantic in 1901 marked the beginning of practical radio communication.
Later, in the 1930s, Edwin Armstrong, an American electrical engineer and inventor, developed FM broadcasting, which improved sound quality and expanded radio’s reach.
Today, radio stands out for its accessibility and convenience, offering an audio medium that reaches a broad audience without the need for expensive equipment.
Even as the mass media industry undergoes technological changes, influenced by the rise of digital audio platforms like streaming services (Spotify, Apple Music) and podcasts, radio remains hard to beat, especially in Kenya.
People in Kenya primarily listen to the radio to stay informed about local news, traffic updates, weather conditions, and events happening in the country, while also enjoying curated music playlists and the sense of companionship provided by familiar on-air personalities, particularly during commutes or while doing chores, as radio is both readily available and cheap.
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With that said, here are the best radio shows to listen to in Kenya right now, as voted for by frequent listeners and personally reviewed by the writer:
1. Best Morning Show: Breakfast47
Breakfast47 is a morning show on Radio 47, the station owned by Mount Kenya University’s Prof Simon Gicharu under Cape Media Limited, which also owns TV47.
Running from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM every weekday, Breakfast47 is hosted by veteran radio journalists Alex Mwakideu and Emmanuel Mwashumbe. Their combined experience of over 20 years makes this show an undisputed favourite.
You’ll enjoy its segments, particularly the politically charged Gumzo 47 at 8:00 AM and Kesi Mashinani at around 9:30 AM, where the duo play the role of judges, humorously resolving local disputes submitted via SMS.
If this doesn’t suit your taste, an alternative is Maina and King’ang’i, featuring Maina Kageni and Mwalimu Churchill on Classic 105 FM during the same time slot.
2. Best Mid-Morning Show: Staarabika
Staarabika is a mid-morning radio programme on Radio Maisha, owned and managed by the Standard Media Group.
Hosted by renowned Kenyan media figure Ann Njogu, the show seeks to facilitate transformative social change in the community through solutions journalism and activism.
Airing from 10:00 AM, Monday to Friday, expect power talks, interviews, cool music, and more when you tune in. It’s a must-listen if you enjoy discussions on gender issues, governance, health, and mental well-being.
3. Best Afternoon Show: Classic 105 & Radio Maisha
It’s a tie between Classic 105’s show hosted by Brenda Obath, which runs until 3:00 PM, and Konnect on Radio Maisha, hosted by Clemmo 254 (Master) and Jitabi Suleiman.
Brenda plays mostly soulful and classic dance music, while Clemmo focuses on pure African and Kenyan music with a live DJ, DJ Genius, who never disappoints.
If you’re single and lucky, you might also find your soulmate there. On the other hand, Brenda Obath’s voice is just wow.
4. Best Drive Show: Maisha Jioni
Truth be told, we are not touching our dials between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM!
Oh, Wycliffe Okumu and Nzula Makosi! These two are incredibly talented, with on-air chemistry that feels natural and entertaining. Their ability to complement each other’s energy and timing is simply unmatched.
Make sure to tune in to Radio Maisha at around 5:30 PM for Sizikwi Nayo, a fan-favourite segment where Kenyans share their deepest secrets anonymously.
Recently, a man confessed to having slept with his mother-in-law! Just last week, another revealed he had been with his wife’s sister, and then his wife left their marriage after discovering. The sister later moved into his home, and they now have children together. Wild!
5. Best Late Night Show: Chemba
Chemba by Dr Ofweneke on Radio 47 is undoubtedly the most listened-to late-night radio show in Kenya.
Known as the Duke of Kakamega and Mtetezi wa Wanyonge (Defender of the Oppressed), Ofweneke is in a league of his own.
What keeps the listeners hooked to the show is notably his “Wisdom number 1..” segment, where he teaches positive masculinity about confident and unapologetic manhood, focusing on mental and physical resilience and emphasising discipline, honour, and strength.
6. Best for News: Radio 47 & Radio Citizen
In terms of popularity, Radio Citizen’s nightly news holds the #1 spot in ratings. However, in terms of quality, Radio 47 is the best.
As a journalist, I have observed and listened to Radio 47’s reporters, and I can confidently say they are doing their best to provide in-depth, long-form content, even from Kenya’s most remote counties.
For years, Radio Citizen has been hailed as Kenya’s top station. Yes, it leads in listenership, as its PG-rated content makes it an easy choice for families. Many people leave it on in the background without paying much attention.
However, if you’re looking for genuinely engaging content, Radio Citizen is not always the most exciting—except for music shows like Roga Roga Sunday Edition with The Blackest Man in Black Africa, Uncle Fred Obachi Machoka, Mambo Mseto by Mzazi Willy M Tuva, and Pambazuka by Jeridah Andayi.
7. Best for Sports: Danadana Viwanjani
Danadana Viwanjani on Radio Maisha is the undisputed best sports radio show, covering live games, news, and analysis.
With Stephen Mukangai, Shaffie Zelle, Walter Kinjo, and Dan Kariuki on the mic, you won’t want to switch stations during their live broadcasts of EPL and UEFA matches.
They also provide expert coverage of local football, from the FKF Kenya Premier League to grassroots teams like Shinyalu United!
Tuning in to Danadana Viwanjani is the best way to stay updated on sports news in real time.
Kenya’s radio landscape continues to thrive, offering something for everyone. Whether you love politics, sports, music, or deep conversations, these shows are worth tuning into in 2025!
What’s your favourite radio show? Let us know in the comments below:
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