Nation Media Group (NMG) has tapped into talent formerly from Cape Media Limited (housing TV47 and Radio 47) as part of a shakeup targeting the weekday programming schedule of its radio station, Nation FM.
Over the weekend, the media house introduced a new lineup of high-profile presenters. To begin with, popular radio host Steve Jacob Maunda alias Shatta Bway, joined the station days after announcing his exit from Cape Media.
Recognised for his vibrant energy and magnetic presence, Shatta is now stepping into the Rockers Nation slot, which airs weeknights from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. This marks his third major gig in radio, following previous roles at Radio Citizen and Radio 47.
The presenter, who joined the media group in March 2024 as a Radio 47 host after moving from Royal Media Services, announced his departure in a social media post on Saturday, May 3.
Radio host Steve Jacob Maunda, also known as Shatta Bway. /SHATTA BWAY
"I have officially left Cape Media (Radio 47). I leave with no regrets, only gratitude and a genuine desire to see Cape Media even higher," he said in an X post.
Looking back on his six-year career, Shatta Bwoy also thanked his fans for their unwavering support throughout his time in the media industry.
"Mlisema Shatta Rudi kwa Radio Daily na nimewasikiliza so stay tuned for the next Chapter.You will like it," he stated, adding "Shatta Generals, 6 Years ago I switched on a Microphone and introduced you to The Shatta Bway and you Guys became Family instantly. You've been with me through thick and thin, the Highs and Lows of Life. Today I have made another decision."
In another recruitment, award-winning media personality Claudia Naisabwa, who was a presenter at TV47, joined Nation FM in what is her first venture into the radio scene. She has been announced as the host of their new mid-morning show, “Vibe Shift,” which she will co-host with Brian Aseli, who is transitioning from the Evening Drive slot. The show will air from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Other than the two high-profile entries, Nation FM’s refreshed programming brings in a wave of new shows and dynamic talent aimed at energising listeners throughout the day.
Barbra Koinange starts the day early with Praise Break, airing from 4:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., delivering a dose of uplifting gospel music to set a positive tone for the morning.
The flagship breakfast show, Fixing The Nation, running from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., remains in the capable hands of Eric Latiff, Janet Mbugua, and Mariam Bishar. This show continues to be simulcast on both radio and TV, blending news, conversation, and entertainment to kick off the day.
Later in the afternoon, Harry Araka and Nyanduko Nyabuto take over with Ride and Vibe, airing from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This drive-time show is packed with engaging discussions and a vibrant playlist, perfect for listeners heading home.
According to the latest State of Media Survey Report 2024 released by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), 28 per cent of Kenyans reported listening to the radio for 1–2 hours per day, while 24 per cent of participants indicated they listen to the radio for 3–4 hours. A further 19 per cent of respondents listen to the radio for 30 minutes to 1 hour each day.
58 per cent of Kenyans listen to the radio between 6.00 am and 10.00 am each day, more than at any other time. This makes it a crucial time for breakfast radio shows, which define the popularity and listenership numbers of some of the biggest radio stations in the country.
Radio Citizen was ranked as the most listened to radio station in 2024 at 12 per cent, followed by Classic 105 at 7 per cent.
The other radio stations were: Radio Jambo (6 per cent), Inooro FM (5 per cent), Kameme FM (5 per cent), Milele FM (4 per cent), Radio Maisha (4 per cent), Radio 47 (4 per cent) and Ramogi FM (3 per cent).
Media personality Claudia Naisabwa. /CLAUDIA NAISABWA