Willis Raburu Quits Job At Sakaja's Govt

Raburu termed it an honour to work with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, to whom he handed his resignation.

Willis Raburu Quits Job At Sakaja's Govt
Willis Raburu at TV47 studios on August 22, 2023. /WILLIS RABURU

Former Citizen TV anchor Willis Raburu has announced his resignation from the position of Chairperson of the Nairobi Festival Committee, a position he had landed in July 2023.

In a statement on Monday, October 30, the former 10 over 10 host termed it an honour to work with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, to whom he handed his resignation.

"This morning, I have officially informed the leadership of the county that I will no longer be serving in my current capacity as Chair of Nairobi Festival Committee.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja meets the Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania Friendship group in the French National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale) in Paris, France on October 17, 2023. /JOHNSON SAKAJA

"It has been an honor to work alongside Governor Sakaja and his administration, and I would like to express my deep gratitude for the trust and opportunity that they have extended to me during my time here," he stated in part.

The media personality however noted that the decision was driven by a recognition of the pressing need for systemic change to enhance the effectiveness of the county's service delivery and leadership.

"It is clear that to better serve the county and its residents, a more comprehensive look at existing systems is essential, which to be fair, have already been instituted and I wish them all the best in this regard," he went on.

Raburu expressed the firm belief that with the right structural adjustments and a collective commitment to positive change, the county can pave the way for a brighter future.

He concluded by expressing his unwavering support for the county leadership, though this will be done from a distance going forward.

"My hope is that this decision will serve as a catalyst for the necessary transformation that our county deserves.

"I remain dedicated to supporting the county from a different vantage point and will continue to work towards the betterment of our community. I thank the county leadership for the opportunities I have been given and look forward to witnessing the positive changes that will result from this pivotal moment," he added.

Speaking on Phil Director’s podcast on Monday, July 17, the renowned presenter gave a glimpse of his county role and explored plans for his feature after leaving Royal Media Services (RMS).

“There are so many things that I think I do. I am a strategist, consultant and so, I am doing some things here and there for our good governor and other companies,” Raburu said.

Despite Raburu not disclosing details about his specific role during the interview, a report by Nairobi News revealed that he was to serve as Sakaja’s Communications Director.

In the role, he was responsible for managing media relations and developing contacts with media members, influencers, and community leaders, as well as leading a team of communication, marketing, and design professionals and assisting in the creation of digital, video, audio and print content.

Following his exit from the county job, Raburu can now fully concentrate on his TV47 job where he hosts Wabebe XP, a music magazine show he has presented since joining the station in August. He quit Citizen TV in June this year.

Willis Raburu formerly at Citizen TV studios. /JASE MWANGI