From working with CNN to K24, KTN, and then Royal Media Services’ Citizen TV and Hot 96, Jeff Koinange is one of the most experienced journalists in the country.
Throughout his career, he has earned several awards and recognitions, thus cementing his name not only in Kenya’s media space but also internationally.
Times Digital Kenya highlights Jeff Koinange’s educational background and accolades, as well as his career in the media industry.
Jeff Koinange’s Early Life and Education
Born on 7 January 1966 in Banana Hill, Kiambu County, Jeff hails from the prominent Koinange family.
He was brought up in Nairobi City, which exposed him to an urban and vibrant social life early on. This later hugely influenced his career in journalism.
While living in Kenya’s capital, Jeff Koinange attended St. Mary’s School, where he pursued his secondary education. In 1984, he completed his A-levels at the school.
Thereafter, he relocated to the United States for his higher education. From 1987 to 1989, Jeff studied Broadcast Technology and Management at Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn, New York.
Later, in 1989, he enrolled at New York University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism, graduating in 1991.
Journalism
Before venturing into the media industry, Jeff Koinange worked as a flight attendant with Pan American World Airways. This role sparked his interest in global affairs and storytelling, ultimately leading him to pursue a career in journalism.
Later, he entered the media industry, where he held several roles in both the United States and Africa. For instance, he worked as a reporter at ABC News and as a producer at NBC News. He was also a correspondent and later chief producer at Reuters Television.
Having acquired valuable skills in his previous media roles, Jeff Koinange’s breakthrough came in 2001 when he joined CNN International as Senior Africa Correspondent.
While at CNN, Jeff covered major stories across the African continent, a role that earned him global recognition. He also received several awards, including the prestigious Television Emmy Award in 2005. The media personality was recognized for his bravery in reporting on humanitarian issues in Africa.
After several years of service at CNN International, Jeff Koinange returned to Kenya, where he quickly became a leading media voice. He first joined K24 TV, where he conducted interviews with influential personalities in politics and beyond.
Following a short stint at the Media Max-owned TV station, Jeff Koinange moved on to join South Africa’s Arise Television.
Later, he made a significant comeback in Kenya by launching the Jeff Koinange Live show at KTN. The show became very popular for its unfiltered interviews with public figures, especially top politicians.
After parting ways with KTN, Jeff Koinange joined the Royal Media-owned television station, Citizen TV, where he continued with the JKL show and further cemented his prominence, making the show even bigger.
The show continues to run to date. Apart from Citizen TV, Jeff Koinange also hosts programs on Hot 96, which is also owned by Royal Media Services.
