CHURCHILL, JEFF LIGHT UP MACHOKA’S FETE

Veteran broadcasters Daniel “Churchill” Ndambuki and Jeff Koinange brought humour and lively entertainment to Fred Obachi Machoka’s 50-year career celebration at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi on Saturday evening.

The two media personalities served as masters of ceremonies at the star-studded event, which brought together prominent figures from the media, entertainment and political sectors to honour Machoka’s longstanding contribution to Kenya’s broadcasting industry.

Their involvement added to the excitement of the golden jubilee, which celebrated a career that has connected generations of Kenyans through radio, television and African music.

Ahead of the event, Churchill and Koinange had appeared alongside musician Nameless on Jeff Koinange Live (JKLive) on Citizen TV to promote the celebrations. The special broadcast featured playful exchanges about their dressing styles, with Koinange teasing Churchill over his decision to appear without socks while contrasting his look with Nameless’s unusually long socks.

Beyond the jokes, the television appearance offered an opportunity to reflect on Machoka’s influence on the industry and the importance of recognising veteran broadcasters while they are still alive.

Churchill expressed his admiration for Machoka, noting that generations of Kenyans had grown up listening to and watching the veteran presenter.

“Nobody needs the roses when the sun has gone down,” Churchill remarked, emphasising the importance of celebrating the achievements of industry pioneers during their lifetime.

The respect extended beyond the television tribute, with Churchill, Koinange and fellow broadcaster Eric Latiff reportedly agreeing to host the golden jubilee celebration without payment, in a gesture of appreciation for Machoka’s contribution to the profession.

Machoka’s broadcasting journey began at the Voice of Kenya, now the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), after he left his position as a General Service Unit signal officer. His entry into broadcasting followed a SANYO radio competition in 1975, which helped bring his distinctive voice to the attention of a producer.

He joined the Voice of Kenya in 1976 before later moving to Royal Media Services, where he established himself as a household name through Roga Roga on Radio Citizen.

Over the decades, Machoka became particularly associated with African rhumba and Lingala music, helping introduce listeners to musicians from across the continent. His ability to connect with audiences through music and conversation earned him the affectionate nickname “Uncle Fred.”

His five-decade career has also attracted formal recognition, including the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Annual Journalism Excellence Awards.

The Nairobi celebration featured performances by celebrated musicians, reflecting the close relationship between Machoka’s broadcasting career and African music. International artists also travelled to the Kenyan capital ahead of the occasion, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.

For Churchill and Koinange, their roles as hosts highlighted the respect shared among personalities who have shaped different aspects of Kenya’s media landscape, from broadcast journalism to comedy and entertainment.

As photographs and videos from the celebration circulated online, the golden jubilee offered a reminder of Machoka’s enduring place in Kenyan broadcasting and the importance of recognising the people whose work has entertained and informed audiences for decades.