Who Is Yvonne Okwara? Yvonne Okwara (full name Yvonne Okwara Matole) is a celebrated Kenyan broadcast journalist, prime-time news anchor, and media consultant known for her sharp analysis, crisp interviewing style, and calm, credible on-air presence. She currently works with Royal Media Services on Citizen TV Kenya, where she has anchored high-impact bulletins and moderated national conversations. Fluent in English and Kiswahili, Yvonne is widely respected for her rigorous approach to journalism and her ability to break down complex issues for a wide audience.
Born on March 16, 1983, in Nairobi, Kenya, Yvonne attended Kianda High School and later earned a BSc in Microbiology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). She is also an alumna of the Bloomberg/Africa Leadership Initiative Media Fellowship, a testament to her commitment to leadership and excellence in the newsroom.
Yvonne Okwara Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yvonne Okwara Matole |
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1983 |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Languages | English, Kiswahili |
| Education | BSc Microbiology (JKUAT); Kianda High |
| Fellowship | Bloomberg/Africa Leadership Initiative |
| Profession | Broadcast Journalist, News Anchor |
| Employer | Royal Media Services (Citizen TV Kenya) |
| Tribe | Luhya |
| Husband | Andrew Matole Konde (veterinary surgeon) |
| Husband’s Age | ~52 |
| Child | Not disclosed |
| Salary | Not disclosed; earns a decent income |
Early Life & Education
Yvonne grew up in Nairobi, where curiosity and discipline shaped her early years. At Kianda High School, she honed strong communication and leadership skills that would later define her broadcasting career. Though she studied Microbiology at JKUAT, her passion for storytelling and public interest issues pulled her toward the media industry. The science background remains an advantage—her interviews often reflect data literacy, evidence-based questioning, and a penchant for clarity.
To sharpen her leadership and editorial vision, she pursued the Bloomberg/ALI Media Fellowship, gaining exposure to newsroom innovation, ethical frameworks, and the responsibility that comes with being a national voice.
Career Journey: From Radio to Prime-Time TV
Yvonne’s first taste of media came at KBC, hosting a children’s show—an experience that taught her how to simplify complex ideas and connect with diverse audiences. She later moved to Hot 96 FM, where radio refined her pace, diction, and ability to think on her feet.
From radio, she transitioned into the Nation Media Group ecosystem through QFM and QTV, and later to KTN (Kenya Television Network). At KTN, her work—anchoring, field reporting, and special programming—grew her reputation for tough, fair interviews and well-prepared segments. Eventually, she joined Citizen TV (Royal Media Services), taking up a prominent role on national television. Her on-air style is balanced: firm but respectful, incisive yet empathetic.
Signature strengths:
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Accountability interviews: pressing for facts, timelines, and public interest outcomes.
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Explainers: breaking down policy and economic shifts into plain language.
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Moderation: facilitating debates with neutrality and strong control.
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Mentorship: advocating for newsroom standards, ethics, and growth of young journalists.
Notable Work & Impact
Over the years, Yvonne has anchored and contributed to programs that examine governance, economy, public health, and social justice. She is recognized for:
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Well-researched interviews with policymakers, business leaders, and civil society voices.
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Public-interest journalism that prioritizes accuracy, verification, and context.
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Media training and consulting, guiding teams on storytelling craft and editorial standards.
Her work underscores journalism’s role in democracy: to inform, scrutinize, and empower citizens.
Awards & Recognition
While awards are not the sum of a career, they reflect public trust and industry respect. Yvonne has been widely acknowledged—formally and informally—by peers and audiences for consistency, preparation, and professionalism. Whether moderating a high-stakes debate or presenting nightly news, she’s known for composure and credibility.
Personal Life: Husband, Tribe, Family
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Husband: Yvonne is married to Andrew Matole Konde, a veterinary surgeon.
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Husband’s Age: Approximately 52 (as shared in public hints).
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Tribe: Yvonne hails from the Luhya community.
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Child: Not disclosed. Yvonne maintains a deliberate boundary between her public profession and private family life.
Her discretion about family matters aligns with her broader philosophy: keep the spotlight on stories and citizens, not on personal details that don’t serve public interest.
Salary & Net Worth
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Salary: Not publicly disclosed. Given her senior role at a leading broadcaster and her consulting capacity, it’s reasonable to state she earns a decent, competitive income in the Kenyan media market.
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Net Worth: Also not publicly available. Yvonne is more often discussed for her professional output and influence rather than figures.
Professional Ethos & Mentorship
Colleagues and viewers often highlight Yvonne’s preparation and fairness. She champions:
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Evidence-based journalism
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Fact-checking and context
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Media literacy
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Mentoring upcoming journalists
She encourages young reporters to read widely, verify relentlessly, and value clarity over performance.
Lessons from Yvonne Okwara’s Journey
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Your degree doesn’t limit your destiny: A science graduate thriving in media shows skills are transferable.
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Preparation is power: Great interviews come from research, listening, and follow-up questions.
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Guard your privacy: Public figures can serve audiences while keeping personal life off-screen.
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Invest in leadership: Fellowships and continued learning sharpen editorial judgment.
FAQs About Yvonne Okwara
1) What is Yvonne Okwara’s tribe?
She is from the Luhya community.
2) Who is Yvonne Okwara’s husband?
She is married to Andrew Matole Konde, a veterinary surgeon.
3) How old is Yvonne Okwara’s husband?
Approximately 52.
4) Does Yvonne Okwara have a child?
Not disclosed publicly.
5) What is Yvonne Okwara’s salary at Citizen TV?
Not publicly disclosed, though she is known to earn a decent, competitive income given her senior role and experience.
6) Where did Yvonne Okwara study?
She attended Kianda High School and holds a BSc in Microbiology from JKUAT. She is also an alumna of the Bloomberg/Africa Leadership Initiative Media Fellowship.
7) What languages does she speak?
English and Kiswahili.
8) What media houses has she worked with?
KBC (children’s show), Hot 96 FM, QFM, QTV, KTN, and now Citizen TV (Royal Media Services).
Conclusion
Yvonne Okwara’s path—from microbiology graduate to one of Kenya’s most trusted broadcast journalists—proves that mastery comes from curiosity, preparation, and integrity. Her career spans radio and television, with a track record of well-researched interviews and public-interest reporting. While she keeps her family life private—husband Andrew Matole, child not disclosed, and salary not disclosed—her professional contributions remain front and center. In a media environment that demands both speed and substance, Yvonne continues to stand out for clarity, fairness, and a steady commitment to the Kenyan public.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this biography is based on publicly available sources and is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, some details may be subject to change or interpretation.