Linus Kaikai is a prominent Kenyan journalist who has shaped the media landscape over the years.
Currently serving as the Group Editorial and Strategy Director at Royal Media Services, he plays a key role in directing Citizen TV’s editorial strategy.
His influence in journalism is backed by years of dedication and experience in various top media houses, making him one of Kenya’s leading voices in broadcast journalism.
Early Life and Education
Linus Kaikai was born in Transmara, Narok County, and raised in a rural area near the Maasai Mara National Park.
Growing up in a large family of ten children, he developed a keen interest in current affairs, which he attributes to his father’s passion for news.
Despite facing challenges such as missing school due to encounters with roaming wild animals, Kaikai’s ambition in journalism never wavered.
Kaikai attended Kilgoris Secondary School before pursuing his training at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC), where he honed his skills in radio and TV broadcasting.
He later earned a master’s degree in international journalism from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, alongside a law degree from the University of Nairobi.
Career Journey
Linus Kaikai’s career in journalism began at Kenya Television Network (KTN), where he quickly gained recognition.
His dedication led to him being awarded the CNN African Television Journalist 1st Prize in 1997.
His growing talent earned him the Environmental Journalist of the Year Award the following year.
Kaikai’s journey continued internationally as he moved to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), where he climbed the ranks from correspondent to bureau chief, covering major global events.
These included the assassination of Burkina Faso’s President Thomas Sankara and the death of Mozambique’s former President. These experiences solidified his passion for journalism.
In 2007, Kaikai returned to KTN as the Managing Editor, overseeing quality and product development.
His career took another turn when he transitioned to NTV, eventually becoming Managing Editor.
Kaikai’s time at NTV was marked by both accomplishments and challenges, including an incident in 2018 when he and other journalists were forced to sleep in the office after a government plot to arrest them was discovered.
Linus Kaikai at Royal Media Services
In 2022, Linus Kaikai became the Group Editorial Director at Royal Media Services, succeeding Joe Ageyo.
At RMS, he has worked hard to shape the editorial vision, ensuring high-quality journalism.
His bold questioning of President William Ruto during the June 30, 2024, presidential roundtable showcased his fearless approach to journalism.
Personal Life
Linus Kaikai is married to Jacinta Mueni.
They have three children: two sons and a daughter.
Kaikai values his privacy but sometimes shares family moments on social media, giving fans a rare peek into his personal life.
Key Facts About Linus Kaikai
Full Name: Linus Kaikai
Position: Group Editorial & Strategy Director at RMS
Education: Master’s degree in International Journalism (Masinde Muliro University), Law Degree (University of Nairobi)
Career: Worked at KTN, SABC, NTV, and now Royal Media Services
Family: Married to Jacinta Mueni with three children
Notable Achievements: CNN African Television Journalist Award, Environmental Journalist of the Year, and a key figure in Kenya’s media landscape
Known For: Unyielding commitment to the truth and fearless interviews
Conclusion
Linus Kaikai remains a respected figure in Kenya’s journalism landscape.
From his humble beginnings in Transmara to becoming a leading media personality, his journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a passion for storytelling.
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