Citizen TV journalist Trevor Ombija has opened up about the difficult jobs he did before building a career in journalism, recalling his days as a matatu conductor and toilet cleaner.

Ombija shared the story during an outdoor event on September 11, 2026, where he spoke about his upbringing, career journey and the lessons he has learnt along the way.
A video of the speech shared on TikTok has since attracted attention, with many Kenyans responding to Ombija’s account of his early years.

From matatu conductor to media personality

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Speaking to the crowd, Ombija recalled working as a conductor on the Kabuoch-Sondu route before moving to Nairobi in search of better opportunities.
“When I was working as a manamba (conductor), I would go from Kabuoch to Sondu. Then I went to Nairobi.”
Trevor Ombija // Instagram
His experience as a conductor is not new to his public story. In an earlier interview, Ombija also spoke about working in Nyakach and said his familiarity with matatu operators and boda boda riders came from having once been part of that world.
After moving to Nairobi, he said he took up work as a cleaner at a warehouse in the Industrial Area.
Ombija specifically recalled working at British American Tobacco, where he was responsible for cleaning two toilets.
“By the time I finished cleaning, I was smelling that no one wanted to sit next to me during meals,” he said.

His journey into journalism

Ombija later pursued journalism at the University of Nairobi, before beginning his media career at CCTV Africa, now known as CGTN, where he worked as an assignment desk editor.
He subsequently joined Nation FM as a news presenter before moving to NTV, where he worked as a news anchor and associate producer. He later moved to Citizen TV, becoming one of the station’s recognisable news personalities.
His journey from casual jobs to television has previously been documented, although his latest speech offered a personal account of some of the less glamorous stages of his life.

Ombija warns against rewarding corruption

The journalist also used his address to urge parents and voters to think carefully about the leaders they support.
He questioned what children learn when adults celebrate leaders accused of corruption.
“When you praise a thief, your child will become one and get lost. If you choose a thief, you must be robbed.”
Ombija added that his criticism was not directed at any particular individual.
“Have I mentioned anyone’s name?” he asked the crowd.
He also quoted Bible verses while encouraging parents to teach their children perseverance and to avoid giving up when faced with difficult circumstances.