Alex is among the most notable names on Kenyan radio. His presence cannot go unmentioned as he has worked in all the top stations in the country including Radio Maisha, Milile FM, and Radio 47.
His humble background from his hometown of Taita-Taveta to the downtown streets of Mombasa eventually landing in the capital, Nairobi, has not been a walk in the park.
Early Life
Mwakideu started primary school at Fahari Primary before they relocated and subsequently transferred to Mikindani Primary. He then proceeded to Shimo La Tewa for his high school studies.
In several interviews, Mwakideu has always highlighted that his upbringing was very modest and that his late parents struggled with keeping him and his siblings through school and catering for their home expenses.
At some point, the popular radio presenter had to join drama club to avoid being sent home due to unpaid fees, during high school. He didn’t proceed with higher education due to financial constraints.
His Career on Radio
His radio journey started at Baraka FM in Mombasa. Among his first appearances in the radio station were commercials that quickly highlighted his broadcasting talent.
“When I received my first pay cheque I moved out of home. My mom was shocked and cautioned that I would eventually return home but my brother told me that once a man moves out there is no room for going back.” said Alex on an interview.
One fateful day, a news reporter got stuck in traffic and was asked to step up and cover the news. He seized the opportunity and delivered flawlessly, prompting the station management to entrust him with more responsibilities. Mwakideu’s rank rose to being a news anchor and his salary was increased to Kshs. 35, 000.
He earned the favor of the management at Baraka FM, who decided to facilitate his pursuit of media studies.
The favor materialized in a big way through an internship in Germany, followed by Melbourne, Australia, for advanced studies in reporting. He also had a stint in China where he amassed a wealth of experience.
How He Ended Up at Radio Maisha
His voyage upon returning to Kenya led him to Standard Group Media, which intended to set up Radio Maisha. Without blinking twice, he seized the career opportunity that would cast him into the national limelight.
The insights he had garnered throughout his educational and professional journey, were pivotal in the SMG radio inception and implementation of various initiatives as the new radio.
After a successful stay at the station, he tendered his resignation and moved on citing greener pastures at Milele FM.
About Alex
- His first salary was Kshs. 5000.
- One of the first things he bought when he received his first salary was a 6×6 bed because he used to sleep on the floor.
- He is married to Mariam, whom he started courting in 2002. They have three kids together.
- Alex got two job offers while still at Baraka FM but chose to cover the international assignments. One was Simba FM and the other was KBC.
- During COVID-19, his salary was slashed by half. This prompted him to start two side hustles to maintain his family.
- His car wash and restaurant businesses, which he started in Kitengela during COVID-19, took off and compensated for his salary slash.
Milele FM
Mwakideu left Radio Maisha after 8 years. During that period his salary has tripled massively to six figures.
His move to Milele FM was long overdue and he was made Head of Radio. Currently, he is one of the best-paid presenters at Milele FM. While there he reunited with Jalang’o, current MP Lang’ata, who was his co-host at Radio Maisha.
On August 14, 2023, Mwakideu announced his departure from Milele FM after a five-year tenure. However, he swiftly did a 360° turn, saying the issues had been resolved and he was staying.
His Current Home
The veteran journalist has now found a home at Radio 47, a Cape Media-owned radio.
Mwakideu co-hosts the morning breakfast show alongside Emmanuel Mwashumbe, known by the alias Mbappe. Their debut was on Monday, August 28, 2023, running from 6 am to 10 am.
He owes his success to his father whom he says taught him the value of hard work and making the best out of any opportunity given or taken.
