Have you ever tuned into any national radio stations in Kenya? Radio stations that broadcast in Swahili, or even English at times? There is always a random Luhya calling in with their famous “Natuma salamu” excuses. It is a love story that has been brewing in the airwaves since time immemorial.
Radios have always been a huge part of Kenyan family life. They have been a significant point of reference when it came to information and entertainment. The legendary VOK started the journey and slowly snuck into Kenyan homes.
KBC came up and dominated most households in the country before the onset of private media who also brought with them various radio stations. As of now, Kenya has more than 150 radio stations that are operational in different areas of the country.
The country has an array of media houses that own a variety of radio stations. There are local radio stations that broadcast in local dialect and there are others that use English and Swahili. The latter are where Luhyas have pitched tent. They are loyal fans. They will call. They will be funny. They will bring up a whole show about them in Patanisho on Radio Jambo.
The reason behind the Western tribe being hooked to radio goes back to their original grandfathers and their pride. Owning a radio set in the past was considered an accomplishment, besides the Black Mamba of course. Luhyas who has a radio set were considered important people in the society. They had crowds gathering in their homesteads just to listen to the 7PM news.
This made most of them addicted to radio. The excitement that came with having their voices heard on radio by calling in never left them. It might be 2023 with a whole new generation, but Luhyas still carry the same attachment to radio they had in the past. It is a special platform for them where they can express themselves, and be funny. Most radio presenters also love the idea of Luhyas calling in. Luhyas would rather call in to request a song than download it.
It is a relationship that goes way beyond the normal love and it does not care about social status. Luhyas who live in Kawangware call into Radio Jambo frequently. Those who reside in Riverside call into Classic 105!
