As Capital FM Kenya prepares to celebrate 30 years on September 20, 2026, the milestone marks far more than the anniversary of a radio station. It is a celebration of a media brand that has shaped conversations, influenced culture, pioneered trends and evolved alongside generations of Kenyans.
Founded in 1996 by Linda Holt, Capital FM emerged at a time when Kenya’s radio landscape was largely traditional and predictable. The station introduced a fresh, youthful and globally inspired urban sound that would go on to redefine FM radio in the country.
The station later entered a transformative era under the late renowned businessman and industrialist Dr. Chris Kirubi, whose acquisition of Capital FM helped shape the brand into one of Kenya’s most influential multimedia platforms. Widely celebrated for his bold business vision and passion for innovation, Dr Kirubi played a pivotal role in expanding the station’s footprint, culture and commercial influence.
Over the last three decades, Capital FM has remained synonymous with innovation and industry firsts.
The station became Kenya’s first privately owned FM radio station and among the first media houses in the country to embrace online live radio streaming long before digital consumption became mainstream.
Capital FM also disrupted Kenya’s music scene by introducing genres such as Rock, Jazz and Neo Soul to mainstream audiences, helping shape urban music culture and influence listening habits across generations.
Beyond radio, the brand evolved into a broader multimedia platform delivering authentic news, digital storytelling, lifestyle content, podcasts, social-first content and live experiences.
Its signature events, including the widely celebrated Koroga Festival, became defining lifestyle experiences that fused music, food and culture while strengthening the station’s connection with audiences.
Today, Capital FM continues to adapt to rapidly changing audience habits, with growing focus on digital, social media and multimedia storytelling aimed at younger, urban and digitally savvy audiences.
Current Chairperson Mary-Ann Musangi says the 30-year milestone reflects the resilience and evolution of a brand that has consistently remained ahead of the curve.
“Capital FM has always been more than a radio station. It is a brand that connects with people, shapes conversations and evolves with the times. As we celebrate 30 years, we are proud of our legacy but even more excited about the future and the opportunities in digital media, innovation and audience engagement,” she said.
Managing Director Symon Bargurei described Capital FM as a best-in-class, digitally driven and content-first media house that continues to redefine audience engagement in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
“For three decades, Capital FM has remained relevant because we have never been afraid to evolve. From radio to digital storytelling, live experiences and social media engagement, our focus has always been on staying connected to our audience and remaining culturally relevant,” he said.
Editorial Director Bernard Momanyi noted that the station’s strength lies in its ability to combine credible journalism with modern multimedia storytelling.
“Capital FM has built a strong reputation for authentic storytelling, credible journalism and impactful conversations. As media consumption habits continue to shift, we are increasingly positioning ourselves as a digital-first multimedia newsroom focused on innovation, engagement and public impact,” he said.
As Capital FM approaches its 30th anniversary, the milestone also offers an opportunity to recognise the listeners, clients, partners, presenters, journalists, DJs, producers, as well all current and former staff members who have contributed to building the brand over the years.
To the audiences who tune in daily, engage online and continue to grow with the station across generations, Capital FM’s story remains deeply connected to theirs.
Thirty years later, Capital FM continues to do what it was born to do — create shifts, shape culture and stay ahead of the moment.
And as the countdown to September 20 begins, the journey towards the next chapter is only getting started.