A New Era for JKLIVE: Abdikadir and Koinange Team Up

Citizen TV’s flagship talk show, JKLIVE, has unveiled a significant transformation, introducing a fresh dynamic with the addition of journalist Ayub Abdikadir alongside veteran broadcaster Jeff Koinange. This strategic move marks a notable evolution in the program’s format, aiming to provide viewers with an enhanced and more engaging news and discussion experience.

The newly implemented structure sees Jeff Koinange continuing his role as the lead for the in-depth talk show segment, a position he has held with distinction for years. Complementing his expertise, Ayub Abdikadir will now anchor the news desk portion of the program, delivering and dissecting current events with his signature insightful approach. This dual-anchor format was first previewed during a successful on-air trial on Sunday Live, where Abdikadir filled in for Citizen TV anchor Olive Burrows, who was covering the African Union elections in Addis Ababa. The palpable chemistry between Koinange and Abdikadir during this initial collaboration resonated strongly with viewers, paving the way for their permanent partnership on JKLIVE.

The official announcement of this new format was made during a live broadcast, with Jeff Koinange expressing his genuine excitement for the innovative direction of the show. He highlighted the seamless integration of the two segments and conveyed his optimism that viewers would appreciate the enhanced viewing experience. Ayub Abdikadir echoed this sentiment, sharing his enthusiasm for his new role and assuring the audience of his comfort and readiness to contribute meaningfully to the program.

Ayub Abdikadir’s journey in Kenyan journalism is characterized by his unwavering commitment to delivering hard-hitting interviews and posing challenging questions to high-profile figures. His reputation for incisive questioning was notably demonstrated during a 2024 interview with President William Ruto, where he probed the controversial decision to deploy Kenyan police officers to Haiti. His career trajectory includes significant roles at K24 TV and Ebru TV, where he honed his skills and established himself as a formidable journalist. A pivotal moment in his career was his joint media interview with former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati, a performance that showcased his sharp intellect and earned him the attention of Royal Media Services, ultimately leading to his move to Citizen TV.

Abdikadir’s rise in the media landscape is a testament to his dedication and talent, having progressed from an internship at Ebru TV to a prominent position at one of Kenya’s leading news outlets. His partnership with Jeff Koinange on JKLIVE is anticipated to usher in a new era for the program, offering viewers a compelling blend of insightful interviews and comprehensive news analysis.