Kenyan television has a rich history, filled with captivating programs that have shaped our culture and entertained generations. From news and current affairs to dramas and comedies, these shows have left an indelible mark on the nation’s collective memory. Here’s a list of the top 10 most watched TV programs in Kenyan history, based on viewership data and cultural impact.
Aired on KBC in the 1980s and 90s, Tushauriane was a groundbreaking Swahili drama series focused on family issues and societal challenges. Its realistic portrayal of Kenyan life made it a household favorite, attracting millions of viewers each week. Episodes are available on YouTube. Its initial budget was around Ksh 50,000 per episode, but rose over time.
This long-running comedy series, also broadcast on KBC, satirized courtroom proceedings with hilarious characters and situations. Its witty writing and memorable cast made it a staple of Kenyan television for decades. The show featured Gibson Mbugua (Prosecutor) and Lucy Wangui (Judge). Early episodes cost approximately Ksh 30,000 to produce.
Another KBC comedy show, Vituko, featured a group of friends getting into comical mishaps. Its simple humor and relatable characters resonated with a wide audience. The show ran from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. Salaries for main cast members were around Ksh 15,000 per month.
This reality show parody, which aired on NTV and KTN, offered a humorous look into the lives of househelps in Nairobi. Its relatable characters and witty dialogue made it a hit with younger audiences. The show had an estimated budget of Ksh 200,000 per episode.
While technically a film, its impact on Kenyan television and streaming services warrants inclusion. This gritty drama tells the story of a young man from the village who dreams of becoming an actor in Nairobi. Its realistic portrayal of city life and its challenges resonated with many viewers. The film's budget was approximately Ksh 25 million.
Aired on Citizen TV, Papa Shirandula was a popular comedy series about a watchman and his everyday life. Its relatable characters and humorous situations made it a family favorite. Main actor Charles Bukeko's salary was rumored to be around Ksh 150,000 per month.
This long-running drama series on Citizen TV revolves around the complexities of family relationships, particularly the dynamic between a mother-in-law and her daughters-in-law. Its relatable characters and engaging storylines have kept viewers hooked for years. Production costs were estimated at Ksh 100,000 per episode.
Another popular Citizen TV comedy series, Inspector Mwala, follows the hilarious exploits of a short-statured police inspector. Its slapstick humor and memorable characters have made it a favorite among viewers. The show has been running for over a decade.
A legal drama that aired on KBC, Mashtaka tackled complex social issues through the lens of courtroom cases. It was known for its thought-provoking storylines and strong performances. Initial production costs were around Ksh 40,000 per episode.
While not a specific program, the evening news bulletins across major Kenyan channels (KTN, Citizen TV, NTV) consistently garner high viewership. Anchors like Catherine Kasavuli (deceased) and others have become household names. Salaries for top news anchors can reach upwards of Ksh 800,000 per month.
