- Jeff Koinange says a phone call in 2007 changed the direction of his career.
- He joined K24 TV and built a strong interview brand through daily shows.
- His time at the station saw him conduct over 1,500 interviews in five years.
- He later worked with international media before returning to Kenya to launch JKL.
- The veteran journalist now hosts his popular show at Citizen TV Kenya.
Veteran media personality Jeff Koinange has shared how a single phone call helped shape his journey in journalism. Speaking about his past, Jeff revealed that in 2007, he received an unexpected invitation from media entrepreneur Rose Kimotho. She asked him to join a newly launched station, K24 TV, at a time when it was still finding its place in the market.
Despite knowing little about the channel, Jeff chose to take the opportunity. That decision would later prove to be a major turning point in his career. It gave him a platform to experiment, grow, and eventually build one of the most recognisable interview styles in Kenyan media.
During his time at K24, Jeff introduced a talk segment that quickly gained popularity among viewers. The show later evolved into Capital Talk, where he hosted high-profile interviews on a daily basis. Over five years, he conducted an impressive 1,520 interviews, a record that highlighted both his consistency and dedication.
His approach to interviews stood out for its boldness and depth. Jeff became known for asking tough questions while maintaining a conversational tone. This style attracted both local and international guests, helping him grow his reputation beyond Kenya.
One of Jeff’s most notable career highlights came during an interview with Luis Moreno Ocampo in The Hague. The exclusive conversation drew attention for its direct questioning and fearless delivery. It also showed his ability to handle sensitive global issues with confidence.
In 2013, Jeff took his experience abroad by joining Arise TV in London. However, his stay there was cut short due to salary delays, prompting his return to Kenya. The move marked another shift in his journey, bringing him back to the local media scene where his influence was already strong.
Back in Kenya, Jeff joined KTN Kenya, where he launched the now-famous Jeff Koinange Live (JKL). The show quickly became a fan favourite, thanks to its relaxed setting and signature “bench” interviews. It offered a fresh way of engaging guests, blending serious conversations with a more personal touch.
However, his time at KTN was not without challenges. A controversial interview involving Miguna Miguna led to his exit from the station. Despite the setback, Jeff remained resilient and continued to evolve his career.
Jeff later found a new home at Citizen TV Kenya, where JKL continues to air. The show has maintained its popularity, featuring influential guests from politics, business, and entertainment. Over the years, it has become one of the most-watched talk shows in the country.
His journey reflects the changing face of Kenyan media, where adaptability and strong personal branding play a key role. From a single phone call to becoming a household name, Jeff Koinange’s story remains one of growth, risk-taking, and persistence.
