In Kenya, as of 2026, there are at least 255 FM stations reportedly operational, giving listeners a chance to choose their favourite from a wide variety.
However, over three decades ago, there were only a few radio stations, meaning the majority of Kenyans had very limited options.
After the pre-colonial period, Kenya had a state-owned station called the Voice of Kenya, which later became KBC. It was the only widely recognisable station, with listeners from every corner tuning in to its programs.
Over time, a shift occurred with the introduction of privately owned radio stations, which would go on to become game changers for years to come. But which radio station was the first privately owned in Kenya?
Times Digital Kenya takes you through its history, its founder, and its current owners, showing why it continues to be among the country’s standout radio stations to this day.
First Private Radio Station in Kenya, its Founder and current ownership
At a time when Kenya was purely dominated by a state monopoly on broadcasting, Lynda Holt launched a new radio station in Kenya, Capital FM, in September 1996.
The official launch took place at the Carnivore Grounds in Nairobi and seemed like a new dawn in the country’s broadcasting industry.
Lynda Holt chose 98.4 MHz, which was a unique frequency as it represents the average human body temperature in Fahrenheit.
One of Capital FM’s first presenters hired were Caroline Mutoko and Zain Verjee, who brought a different sound to the ears of Kenyans who for so long had been listening to KBC.
However, Lynda Holt did not remain the owner of the radio station for long, as she later sold it under Capital Group Limited to the late Kenyan tycoon Chris Kirubi.
It is widely reported that Kirubi bought the radio station in 1998, while others state that the full acquisition happened around 2003 and 2004.
Under Kirubi, Capital FM saw a huge transformation as it focused more on entertainment and urban content, connecting with Kenyan youth.
Although its main content was in English, it definitely brought a breath of fresh air, given that before it, only KBC existed and mainly focused on state events and more local programmes.
It was a game changer in the industry, which saw other privately owned radio stations emerge within a few years, with some following its model.
Following his death in 2021, Chris Kirubi’s daughter, Mary-Ann Musangi, took over, with Capital FM owned by his estate, where she serves as Group Chairperson.
After around 30 years, Capital FM is still one of the radio stations in Kenya that resonates with modern and urban culture, and more so entertainment.
