Competition among local radio stations has gone a pitch higher after Mbaitu FM poached two celebrated presenters from Athiani FM.
Sammy Mulinge alias ‘Man Mbilo’ and Joseph Malombe alias ‘Musungu Kyumbe’ who hosted evening and morning shows in turns, did their first show in Mbaitu FM Monday morning.
Mbaitu FM Chief Executive Officer, Martin Masai confirmed the two had formalised their engagement with the station which was the first privately owned FM station to broadcast in Kikamba language.
“I can confirm the two (Musungu and Man Mbilo) are with us. The essence is not only to entertain and educate our audience, but also take radio journalism to the next level,” Masai told this writer in a telephone interview.
The move, which was widely unexpected, triggered excitement among Kamba radio fans who regard the two presenters as the undisputed icons of radio journalism in Ukambani.
Both Man Mbilo and Musungu Kyumbe are known for their hilarious jokes in their shows, which nearly break the ribs of listeners.
Athiani FM is owned by former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, while former Lands CS Charity Ngilu is associated with Mbaitu FM.
Observers believe the development could trigger a new rivalry between the two politicians who both command a huge following in Ukambani.