Kenyan radio presenter Alex Mwakideu has spoken about the circumstances that led to his move to Radio 47 after leaving Milele FM. In an interview on the Iko Nini Podcast, Mwakideu revealed that he had initially planned to quit radio broadcasting altogether and focus on his personal business ventures. He found it challenging to balance a full-time media job with private business interests, as employment demands a significant level of commitment. Mwakideu said he intended to return home and concentrate on his personal business ventures after resigning from Milele FM.
However, his plans changed after his wife encouraged him to remain open to new opportunities and listen to offers from media houses that contacted him following his resignation announcement. Several media executives reached out to him shortly after he announced his departure from Milele FM on social media. He attended meetings with prospective employers at different locations in Nairobi, including Silver Springs Hotel and Lavington, as he considered the offers presented to him. Despite the interest, the veteran presenter turned down the proposals, explaining that they lacked the fresh direction he was looking for.
Mwakideu explained that he had been determined to leave radio behind, but his wife’s advice persuaded him to consider the available options before making a final decision. He said the terms and opportunities offered by some stations felt too similar to his previous broadcasting roles, making him reluctant to return to the industry. Mwakideu revealed that his wife played a significant role in his decision-making process, and her encouragement was instrumental in him reconsidering his decision to leave the media industry.
The turning point came when Radio 47 management invited him for a meeting. During his visit, Mwakideu discovered that the station had assembled a team that included several broadcasters and colleagues he had worked with in previous roles. Among them was Emmanuel Mwashumbe, his co-host for nearly eight years during their time at Radio Maisha. The station also featured Ali Hassan, presenter Linda Oriaso, whom he had worked with at Baraka FM, and manager Geoffrey Mung’ou.
Mwakideu said the familiar faces and working environment influenced his decision to accept the opportunity. He noted that creatives perform better when they work in environments where they feel comfortable and happy, adding that the atmosphere at Radio 47 appealed to him. The opportunity to work alongside people he already knew helped convince him that the station offered the professional environment he wanted. Mwakideu recalled thinking, “I think I’ll be happier here.”
Mwakideu also disclosed that his move to Radio 47 marks what he considers the final chapter of his radio presentation career. His broadcasting journey began at Baraka FM in Mombasa before he moved to Nairobi, where he continued building his profile in the media industry. After years of working at different stations, he now intends to finish his career at Radio 47 rather than move to another broadcaster when his current contract expires.
Mwakideu concluded by saying, “I think I will finish strong nikiwa katika Radio 47.” He appears to have found a sense of closure and a new sense of purpose at Radio 47. The support of his wife and the familiar team at the station have contributed to his decision to continue his radio career. Mwakideu's story serves as a testament to the importance of having a supportive network and finding the right work environment.
Key points
- Alex Mwakideu considered quitting radio broadcasting but was persuaded by his wife to explore new opportunities.
- Mwakideu turned down several radio offers due to a lack of fresh direction.
- The familiar team at Radio 47, including former colleagues, influenced Mwakideu's decision to join the station.
