How Ex-Nation Journalist Rose to Become Govt Publisher CEO

The Nation Centre building located at Kimathi Street, Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD).
The Nation Centre building located at Kimathi Street, Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD).
Photo
Kenyans.co.ke

In the dynamic media industry, certain practitioners possess the remarkable ability to build enduring legacies that persist long after their retirement. Some go on to become trailblazers, inspiring budding talents to build strong careers. 

One such person is Edward Mwasi, an experienced manager who previously worked at the Nation Media Group (NMG). 

Most people who know him directly are keen to note that he is an accomplished professional who built an illustrious career having worked his way up.

So what's so special about him? Let's start at the end.

Journalist and outgoing KYEB CEO Edward Mwasi at the Radio Taifa Studios on Tuesday July 11, 2023Journalist and outgoing KYEB CEO Edward Mwasi at the Radio Taifa Studios on Tuesday July 11, 2023
Journalist and outgoing KYEB CEO Edward Mwasi at the Radio Taifa Studios on Tuesday, July 11, 2023
Photo
Edward Mwasi

On Tuesday, July 11 he was surprised by his colleagues as he left the Kenya Yearbook Editorial Board (KYEB).

Instructively, Mwasi served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)at the government publishing establishment for close to 13 years.

"I am feeling incredibly grateful for the surprise farewell bash organised by my amazing team at Kenya Yearbook Editorial Board! The love and support shown are truly heartwarming. Thank you for making this journey unforgettable. Keep going team," he stated.

During his tenure at the organisation, Mwasi managed to turn it from a debt-riddled organisation into a profitable institution.

“Through strategic partnerships, innovative approaches, and a dedicated team, we turned the organization around and positioned it as a thriving publishing house in Kenya," Mwasi stated in a past interview.

KYEB was established in 2007 as a State Corporation under the Ministry of Information, Communications, and Technology to enhance government communications and produce publications highlighting development in all sectors.

Some of the publications done by KYEB include MyGov Weekly, Infobytes, and Agenda Kenya among others. The agency was also tasked with preparing the late President Daniel Arap Moi's funeral program in 2020.

Media Background

At Nation Media Group (NMG), Mwasi worked as the Chief Graphic Designer from 1993 to 2009 before moving to the government corporation.

In a previous interview, Mwasi took pride in his talent— art— stating that he was excited to eke a sustainable living from it.

Mwasi recalled some of his most impactful work including illustrations he curated for major stories such as the Atur Margarian brothers saga, Anglo-Leasing: the Truth, and the Airforce Story among other big splashes.

He further advised budding journalists and other media practitioners to be committed and passionate about their craft.

Mwasi holds a Bachelor's Degree in Arts (Design) from the University of Nairobi.

An image of the University of Nairobi (UoN) towers in Nairobi County.
A photo of the University of Nairobi (UoN) towers in Nairobi County.
Kenyans.co.ke