Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary-General Francis Atwoli and his wife, journalist Mary Kilobi, surprised veteran broadcaster Jeff Koinange with an impromptu birthday celebration during the first JKL Live show of 2026 on Citizen TV.
The segment, which aired on Wednesday night, turned emotional and lighthearted as Atwoli and Kilobi walked onto the set with a cake while praising Koinange for his contribution to the media.
She described Koinange as a role model to many across the continent.
“Happy birthday, JK. You are such an inspiration to many and you are a gift,” she said.
“Not only to the media fraternity but to Kenya and East Africa and beyond.”
Koinange, 60, appeared visibly moved as the crew joined in singing the birthday song.
Kilobi wished him well in the decade ahead, saying she hoped it would bring him “the best memories” of his life.
Atwoli, known for his candid and humorous appearances on the show, offered a tribute that blended admiration and jest.
“Jeff is a great man,” he said.
Atwoli later told Koinange that his interviewing style often prompted guests to open up more than they expected.
“It is only your program that you dig into me, you understand me,” he said.
“You make me say things that I have never told even my own parents. Before you, I will talk.”
The episode briefly turned into a full studio celebration as producers, technical staff and other crew members stepped onto the set to take part in the moment.
Kilobi and Atwoli assisted Koinange in cutting the cake as the cameras rolled.
Koinange thanked his guests and the team for the surprise, calling it a memorable start to the new broadcasting year.
He signed off the show by expressing gratitude to viewers and reiterating his well-known closing line.
“You know if it’s Wednesday, it’s those three letters on your keyboard that follow each other. J-K-L,” he said.
The broadcast marked the first JKL Live episode of 2026, setting a warm and festive tone for the programme as it entered the New Year.
by SHARON MWENDE
