Citizen TV anchor Jeff Koinange has managed to stay at the top of his game for over two decades and has garnered loyal fans over the years.
Whether he is anchoring news, hosting a show on the radio or being an MC, he definitely knows how to warm his way into the hearts of Kenyans. However, like any other celebrity, the award-winning journalist always faces a number of challenges, including media pressure.
During an exclusive interview with Kenyans.co.ke on Monday, November 25, 2019, Koinange revealed that he had drawn inspiration from President Barrack Obama, to avoid falling under pressure.
At a time when his colleagues cry out over the pressure of being a media personality, he decided never to live by certain rules and doctrines within his professional line.
"I am not different from anybody. Nothing absolutely differentiates me from any other journalist. The thing about me is that I always say to myself that it's never that serious in our line of duty.
"Whenever some people appear on TV, they always want to be rigid and to follow a strict protocol. For me, If I can't make fun of myself, other people will," Koinange enthusiastically disclosed.
Koinange's show JKLive is one of a kind, filled with humour and unsuspecting drama. Koinange stated that he had decided to be himself, aping Obama.
"I read Barrack Obama's first book, Dreams From My Father, where he talks about his memoirs. In it, he talked about everything he did. From womanising to smoking pot (before he became president). He was straying in life. He did not follow any direction for many years.
"I said to myself, that is the best way to be. Be honest, put your life out there that they have nothing to look for. We all know that this job we have won't last for long. So have fun while doing it. That's why I say funny phrases like 'Oh My!' 'It's smoookin!' Can you explain that in English?," Koinange wondered, breaking into hearty laughter.
During a previous interview, the renowned media personality stated that he would not want to try a hand in politics.
"Who is going to vote for me? I drive down Uhuru Highway and I put my windows down and the guys who sell the newspaper say, 'Hi Jeff, why don't you vie for a seat sometime?'
"Then one of the men in the group will say, who is going to vote for him? Who is going to read the news for us?" Jeff narrated as he laughed about it.
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