In a transition that marks the end of a golden era for Kenyan broadcast journalism—and the start of a formidable new chapter—Yvonne Okwara has officially stepped away from the senior news anchor’s desk to join Shuga Global as its new Head of Investments and Partnerships.
The move follows her emotional sign-off from Citizen TV, concluding an iconic two-decade journey in broadcast media where she stood out as one of East Africa’s most formidable television hosts, business editors, and prime-time prime interrogators.
Her jump to Shuga Global shifts her scope from holding power to account on camera to building sustainable financial and strategic frameworks off camera. Shuga Global highlighted her credentials as a corporate communications expert, fundraising strategist, and government relations authority.
As Head of Investments and Partnerships, Okwara will lead the UK-headquartered organization’s global drive to mobilize resources, cultivate strategic corporate alliances, and build alternative revenue pipelines. The hire comes as Shuga Global—best known for its iconic, multi-award-winning youth drama series and behavioral change campaigns—pivots toward financial self-sustainability to reduce reliance on traditional donor grants.
While the move surprised many broadcast audiences, it aligns directly with Okwara’s evolving career trajectory beyond traditional journalism. Having moderated high-level presidential debates, interviewed global leaders, and chaired independent media boards, Okwara brings a deep network and an innate understanding of governance, public policy, and corporate diplomacy.
MTV Shuga initially launched as a Kenyan production before evolving into an international social impact franchise. Bringing on one of Kenya’s most respected media figures to champion its global scaling efforts feels like a natural full-circle moment.
