Fired Citizen TV Cameraman Who Built Own Media Empire

A former Citizen TV journalist who was sacked from Royal Media Services has grown to build his own media empire.

Former Citizen TV Head of Camera John Marete who lost his job in 2016 went ahead to venture into the media industry, now owning the top Meru radio and TV stations (Weru TV and Weru FM).

Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, a cameraman who worked under Marete at Royal Media described him as a man with an entrepreneurial mind who was passionate about coordination and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. 

A photo of Weru TV CEO John Marete in London in April 2014

“Marete was a leader who clearly showed signs to make major moves in the media sector. His efforts helped him build what he has achieved today.

“He was a key figure in grooming many cameramen who have since made major strides working in leading media stations,” remarked the journalist.

After the launch of Weru TV in December 2016, the station grew to be a market leader in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties. 

With a heavy focus on Meru culture, Weru TV maximized on getting the attention of the local population.

In June 2017, Marete went forward to launch a radio station-Weru FM which also broadcasted in Meru language.

The station aimed at countering the already established Muuga FM that is owned by Royal Media and Meru FM owned by Mediamax Network Limited.

Weru FM launched with a bang after assembling popular media personalities in the region, among them Makena Materi, who was at Muuga FM and Rita Kanorio, from Meru FM.

A photo of anchors presenting news at Weru TV.The station was launched in December 2016.

Other popular presenters who were brought in to the station include Gachururiga Kaa Ameru, a former presenter at Thiiri FM.

Marete also brought in the region’s top DJ Alekings Werbit in a bid to grow music programs at the station.