Jeff Mwaura Koinange, a prominent Kenyan journalist and award-winning news anchor, has left an indelible mark in the realm of media. Renowned for his tenure at various international news organizations and his current role at Citizen Television, Jeff Koinange stands as a paragon of journalistic excellence.
Jeff Koinange Birthday
Born on January 7, 1966, in Kiambaa village, Kiambu County, Kenya, Jeff Koinange is the youngest child of Fredrick Mbiyu Koinange. His lineage traces back to Chief Koinange Wa Mbiyu of the Gikuyu tribe. Jeff’s father passed away when he was young, leaving his mother, Hilda Wambuyi Ngoima, to raise him and his siblings—Hilda Wanjiru, Phyllis Wangui, and Freddie Koinange.
Education
Jeff’s educational journey took him to Hospital Hill School in Parklands and later to St. Mary’s for his A-levels. Subsequently, he pursued Broadcast Technology and Management at the College of Kingsborough Community in Brooklyn, New York, earning a scholarship to the University of New York, where he graduated in 1991 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Career
Jeff’s foray into communication began as a flight attendant for Pan Am World Airways in 1986. This experience ignited his passion for communication, prompting him to resign and delve into journalism. Over the years, he worked with notable organizations, including KTN News, Reuters TV, CNN, NBC News, ABC News, and K24.
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His illustrious career includes serving as CNN’s Logos Bureau Chief for five years, transitioning to become the Network’s Senior Africa Correspondent in Johannesburg. Jeff’s journalistic prowess led him to host the talk show “Jeff Koinange Live” on KTN TV and later anchor the JKL Live edition on Citizen TV.
Jeff Koinange Wife and Child
Jeff’s personal life has seen its share of challenges and triumphs. His first marriage to a Panamanian woman, Sonya, ended in 1994. Despite the breakup, Jeff holds fond memories of Sonya. Presently, he is happily married to Shaila Koinange, with whom he shares a son named Jamal Mbiyu, born in 2007.
Jeff Koinange Awards
Jeff Koinange’s contribution to journalism has earned him prestigious awards, including the Moran of the Burning Spear Award from President Mwai Kibaki, the George Forster Peabody Award, and the distinction of being the first African to win a TV EMMY for his coverage of famine in Niger, West Africa.
Challenges and Controversies
In April 2016, Jeff faced a harrowing incident when thugs broke into his Kitusuru residence, prompting a police response. In May 2015, he and businessman Tony Gachoka were arrested, accused of neglecting to appear before a court magistrate in connection with a dispute with Jimmy Wanjigi and Sani Mbui Wanjigi.
Wealth and Assets
Beyond journalism, Jeff has amassed wealth through entrepreneurship, owning assets like a Mercedes G Wagon and a residence in Kitusuru. His total assets amount to $50,000, and he enjoys the finer things in life, including imported Cuban cigars.
Jeff Koinange Salary and Net Worth
As one of Kenya’s wealthiest journalists, Jeff Koinange boasts a net worth of $40,000, supplemented by an annual salary of $50,000, reflecting his remarkable success in the field of journalism and beyond.
