NTV news anchor Fridah Mwaka has opened up about the hardships she endured during the early stages of her media career, revealing a journey marked by resilience, humility, and an unwavering sense of self-worth.
Speaking candidly in a recent video, Mwaka recalled her time at KTN, when despite appearing polished on the 7 p.m. news bulletin, she relied solely on matatus for her commute. She would alight at Bobmill Complex on Mombasa Road and walk to the Standard Media offices, often under challenging conditions.
Her struggles went beyond transport. Mwaka shared how she was snubbed and judged by some colleagues simply because she didn’t own a car. “There are news presenters who never greeted me because I didn’t have a car,” she revealed. “One even told me I wasn’t in their class.”
A particularly painful memory involved being splashed with mud by a lorry during a rainy afternoon, just as she was heading in to present the 4 p.m. bulletin. With no change of clothes and tears in her eyes, she says she cried out to God for help.
Despite these trials, Mwaka’s faith remained firm. During this tough period, she was offered a lifeline an unnamed Member of Parliament offered to buy her a car worth up to KSh 2.5 million. He even took her to a showroom along Ngong Road and asked her to choose any vehicle she wanted
Surprisingly, she declined the offer.
“I don’t know if it was stupidity, but I rejected it. I was scared and new to Nairobi,” she admitted.
Her decision echoes similar stories shared by other media personalities, including Joey Muthengi, who faced advances from powerful men after being typecast in TV roles.
Fridah Mwaka’s story is one of dignity and perseverance. Her refusal to compromise her values even when facing adversity serves as an inspiration to many young professionals navigating Kenya’s often unforgiving media landscape.
