The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has officially launched a new framework designed to honour the nation’s veteran broadcasters. This initiative will begin by celebrating the legendary career of Fred Obachi Machokaa.
The veteran journalist, a staple of Citizen TV and Radio, is set to mark a massive milestone of 50 years behind the microphone in September 2026.
A Milestone for Kenyan Broadcasting
The announcement marks a significant moment for the media industry in Kenya. The MCK plans to use this golden jubilee to recognize the contributions of those who have shaped the airwaves for decades. Machoka is widely regarded as a giant in the fields of broadcasting and journalism.
“Today, we have began by launching this programme of celebrating Machokaa who is celebrating 50 years and other veterans in that celebration planned for September,” MCK CEO David Omwoyo said.
The celebrations are scheduled to take place in September. These festivities will coincide with Roga Roga, the popular music programme hosted by Machoka. 
The event is expected to feature performances from various musicians. It will serve as a platform to celebrate both Machoka and other veterans in the profession.
"This memorial will not be celebrating the past. It will be launching the future," Omwoyo added.
Moving from Brain Drain to Brain Gain
The MCK CEO, emphasised that this framework is about more than just looking back at old achievements. The goal is to ensure that the knowledge held by veterans is not lost to the industry. The council wants to shift the narrative from "brain drain" to "brain gain."
By honouring these veterans, the MCK commits to making mentorship a regular part of professional life within newsrooms. The council intends to use the long-term expertise and skills of seasoned broadcasters to assist the current generation of journalists.
"As we celebrate, we are saying don’t go away with the brain. Let’s start discussing the welfare of veterans and utilise their brain," Omwoyo stated.
The Legend of the "Blackest Man in Black Africa"
Fred Obachi Machoka has had a storied career that spans half a century. Before becoming a household name in radio, he served as a General Service Unit (GSU) officer in the police force.
His transition to media began at the Voice of Kenya (now KBC) after winning a competition. He later moved to Royal Media Services, where his show Roga Roga became a Saturday afternoon staple for Rhumba enthusiasts across East Africa.
The upcoming September event is not just a party. It is a strategic move to integrate veteran wisdom into modern media practices. 
The MCK aims to create a sustainable environment where the "golden voices" of the past can guide the digital voices of the future.
This celebration of 50 years marks a rare level of longevity in a fast-paced industry.
