Andrew Kibe
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| Andrew Kibe in 2025 | |
| Background information | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Andrew Kibe |
| Born | 1 July 1976 (age 48) Nairobi, Kenya |
| Occupations | Media personality Content creator Entrepreneur |
| Years active | 2018–present |
| Known for | Radio shows on NRG and KISS 100 YouTube content Yafreeka platform |
Andrew Kibe (born 1 July 1976) is a Kenyan media personality, content creator, and entrepreneur renowned for his provocative commentary on gender dynamics, relationships, and societal norms. He gained prominence through radio shows on [NRG Radio](https://www.nrg.radio/) and [KISS 100](https://kiss100.co.ke/), where his unfiltered style captivated audiences.[1] After leaving radio in 2020, Kibe built a substantial YouTube presence, amassing over 474,000 subscribers before his channels were terminated in 2023, prompting the launch of [Yafreeka](https://home.yafreeka.com/), a video-sharing platform for uncensored content.[2] His outspoken views, often critical of feminism and advocating for men’s empowerment, have positioned him as a polarizing figure, earning both a dedicated following and significant criticism.[3] Prior to media, Kibe was a motivational speaker, an aspiring pastor, and an unsuccessful parliamentary candidate for Lang’ata in 2013, experiences that shaped his resilient and controversial persona.[4] In 2023, he announced plans to return to Kenya to expand Yafreeka and mentor young creators.[5]
Early life
Andrew Kibe was born on 1 July 1976 in Nairobi, Kenya, into a Kikuyu family.[3] Raised by his single mother after his father's death during his early childhood, Kibe grew up in a financially strained household, often facing hunger and evictions.[4] "My mum was my hero; she'd go without food so we could eat," he recalled, crediting her sacrifices for his resilience.[4] The family sometimes survived on one meal a day, and Kibe vividly described nights spent hiding from landlords to avoid eviction.[6] These hardships fueled his rebellious streak, leading to petty theft, such as stealing a neighbor's radio to listen to music and clothes to attend parties, which he described as "survival tactics" in a world that offered little.[6]
Kibe attended Nairobi Milimani School, where he was part of a fashionable clique alongside future Senator Mutula Kilonzo Jr., known for their stylish outfits that mimicked school uniforms.[7] His defiance extended to school, where he clashed with teachers and flouted rules, once sneaking out to a nightclub and returning drunk, only to face his mother's disapproval.[4] Kibe opted not to pursue university education, viewing it as a system that "produces conformists" rather than innovators, a stance he maintains: "College is for zombies."[8] In his early 20s, Kibe immersed himself in religious activities, aspiring to become a pastor and forming a close bond with celebrity pastor Robert Burale.[9] They co-hosted a 2012 seminar on self-image, but Kibe grew disillusioned with organized religion, citing hypocrisy among church leaders: "I saw pastors living lies, and I couldn't do it."[10] This shift marked a turning point, redirecting his focus to secular pursuits and shaping his outspoken persona.[4]
Career
Early pursuits
Andrew Kibe’s early career was marked by a series of eclectic ventures that reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and search for purpose. In the early 2000s, he worked as a motivational speaker, delivering talks on personal development and resilience, drawing from his childhood struggles with poverty and rebellion.[11] "I wanted to inspire people to rise above their circumstances," he said, noting that his seminars targeted young Kenyans seeking direction.[4] Kibe briefly served as CEO of Flame Keepers Publishing House, a venture aimed at producing inspirational literature, though its limited success and unclear scope left little public record.[11] He described the role as a learning experience, teaching him the challenges of managing creative projects.[6]
In 2013, Kibe ran for the Lang’ata parliamentary seat under the United Democratic Forum (UDF) Party, motivated by a desire to reform Kenya’s political landscape. The campaign was a financial and emotional ordeal, with Kibe investing heavily in rallies and voter outreach, only to secure 1,737 votes out of 78,208.[12] "I poured everything into it and ended up in debt," he admitted, recounting sleepless nights and strained relationships due to the campaign’s toll.[4] He learned the importance of strategic planning and public perception, lessons that later informed his media career. Despite the loss, Kibe expressed renewed political interest in 2023, spurred by the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) expulsion of incumbent Lang’ata MP Jalang’o. "I might go back and make noise," he said, hinting at a potential future bid.[13] These early pursuits, though largely unsuccessful, honed his public speaking skills and resilience, setting the stage for his media breakthrough.[4]
Radio career
Kibe’s media career began in July 2018 when he joined [NRG Radio](https://www.nrg.radio/) as co-host of the *NRG Breakfast Club* alongside Kamene Goro, a pairing that quickly became a sensation in Kenya’s radio scene.[1] Their bold discussions on relationships, gender roles, and societal issues, delivered with unfiltered humor, resonated with a young, urban audience. "We didn’t hold back, and people loved the rawness," Kibe noted, crediting their chemistry for the show’s success.[4] The show’s provocative style, often tackling taboo topics like infidelity and gender dynamics, made it a standout, with Kibe’s brash delivery complementing Goro’s polished approach.[14] Kibe recounted specific moments, like heated debates with callers, that boosted listener engagement and solidified their reputation.[6]
In June 2019, Kibe and Goro were recruited by [KISS 100](https://kiss100.co.ke/) to host *The Morning Kiss*, replacing Adelle Onyango and Shaffie Weru.[15] The move was delayed until September 2019 due to a legal challenge from NRG Radio, which invoked a non-compete clause, costing Kibe and Goro weeks of negotiations and public scrutiny.[15] At KISS 100, their show continued to draw listeners, with Kibe earning an estimated KSh 100,000–200,000 monthly.[16] However, tensions arose with management over Kibe’s controversial commentary. "They wanted a tamer version of me, but that’s not who I am," he said, recalling specific instances where his use of explicit language was flagged.[14] He clashed with producers over content restrictions, such as avoiding sensitive topics, which he viewed as stifling his authenticity.[4] Frustrated, Kibe resigned in June 2020, citing irreconcilable differences and a desire for creative control.[17] His radio tenure established him as a household name, but its constraints pushed him toward digital platforms.[4]
Online media and entrepreneurship
After leaving KISS 100, Kibe launched [Rogue Radio](https://www.thekenyanman.co.ke/former-kiss-100-presenter-andrew-kibe-to-launch-his-own-radio-station/) in November 2020, funded by a friend, aiming to replicate his radio success online.[18] The platform struggled with audience engagement and technical issues, leading to its discontinuation within months. "I didn’t plan it well; it was a rush," Kibe admitted.[19] Seeking a fresh start, he relocated to the United States, where he focused on YouTube, rapidly growing his channel to over 474,000 subscribers and 160 million views by 2023.[20] His content, critiquing Kenyan celebrities, societal norms, and gender dynamics, resonated with a global audience. "YouTube gave me freedom to say what radio wouldn’t allow," he noted.[21] However, his channels were terminated in 2023 for violating YouTube’s community guidelines, a setback he attributed to censorship of his provocative views.[2]
Undeterred, Kibe launched [Yafreeka](https://home.yafreeka.com/) in 2023, a video-sharing platform designed to host uncensored content and empower African creators.[22] "They tried to silence me, so I built my own space," he declared, emphasizing Yafreeka’s mission to bypass mainstream restrictions.[5] The platform allows creators to monetize content through business advertisements, though some users criticized its technical reliability and competitiveness.[23] In 2023, Kibe announced plans to return to Kenya to expand Yafreeka’s presence, establish a physical base, and mentor young creators: "Kenya’s my roots; I’ll come back to build something big."[5] He shared his vision of creating workshops and training programs to guide aspiring content creators, drawing from his own experiences.[5] Yafreeka’s launch marked a bold entrepreneurial step, reflecting Kibe’s ambition to challenge global platforms like YouTube.[22]
Beyond Yafreeka, Kibe ventured into merchandise with Rogue Tribe, selling branded apparel to his fanbase, and launched *The Andrew Kibe Comedy Show* on [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/4bg2YP7tLvJQhz2iZpAITu), blending humor with his signature commentary.[24] He also explored partnerships with creators and businesses to build a network prioritizing free expression.[5] In 2023, Kibe won the Social Media African Star of the Year at the South African Social Media Awards, recognizing his continental influence.[25] His shift from radio to digital media underscores his adaptability, with each phase—early ventures, radio stardom, and online innovation—building his reputation as a resilient and polarizing figure.[4]
Personal life
Andrew Kibe married in 2012 in a church wedding he described as chaotic, marked by physical disruptions, including broken windows, and strong opposition from his mother, who disapproved of the union.[26][27] The ceremony, officiated by Pastor Daniel Wabala, was pressured by Kibe’s church community, which he later blamed for rushing him into an ill-fated marriage. "I was pushed into it by people who didn’t know me," he said, recounting how the church’s expectations clashed with his personal doubts.[19] Kibe shared specific memories of the wedding day, including guests arguing and his mother’s vocal protests, which left him feeling trapped.[14] The marriage ended in divorce, a decision Kibe attributed to irreconcilable differences and external pressures, leaving him wary of romantic commitments.[19]
Kibe has a son from the marriage but maintains limited contact due to ongoing disputes with his ex-wife, who he claims restricts his access. "I haven’t seen my boy in years; it’s not my choice," he expressed, reflecting on his frustration and regret as a father.[19] In the Mic Cheque Podcast, he admitted to being an imperfect parent, prioritizing honesty over traditional fatherly roles: "I’m not the best dad, but I’m real."[5] Some sources claim Kibe has three daughters, including one named Miss Nduta, but these reports remain unverified, and Kibe has not publicly confirmed them.[26] His strained family relationships extend to his late sister, who died in 2012. Kibe admitted to feeling no grief due to prior conflicts, stating, "We weren’t close; I felt nothing," a revelation that shocked interviewers and highlighted his emotional detachment.[19] He also maintains limited contact with his mother, whom he credits as his greatest influence but sees infrequently due to his focus on work. "My mum raised me, but I’m on my own path now," he noted, emphasizing his independence.[4]
Kibe’s personal life has been marred by controversial statements, notably his 2023 claim on the Mic Cheque Podcast that he does not love anyone, including his children. "Love is a distraction; I focus on truth," he defended, sparking widespread backlash for promoting emotional detachment.[28][5] Critics argued this stance reinforced toxic masculinity, while supporters saw it as a candid reflection of his priorities.[5] In 2021, allegations surfaced that Kibe dated a 17-year-old, a claim he did not publicly address, further fueling public scrutiny and damaging his reputation among some fans.[29] Rumors of a relationship with an older woman in the U.S., described by singer Samidoh as a "sugar mommy," have circulated, but Kibe has neither confirmed nor denied these claims, maintaining a private stance on his romantic life.[8]
Now residing in the United States, Kibe leads a low-profile personal life, focusing on fitness and content creation, which he links to mental clarity. "I live for me, not for applause," he said, underscoring his commitment to authenticity over societal expectations.[14] His announced plans to return to Kenya in 2023, primarily to expand his Yafreeka platform and mentor creators, reflect a desire to reconnect with his roots while maintaining his independent lifestyle.[5] Despite his public persona, Kibe remains guarded about personal details, prioritizing his career over familial or romantic ties, a choice that continues to shape his polarizing image.[21]
Controversies
Andrew Kibe’s career has been defined by controversy, largely due to his outspoken views on gender roles and feminism, which he frequently expresses on platforms like YouTube and [Yafreeka](https://home.yafreeka.com/). His assertion that “women have too much power without accountability” has drawn accusations of misogyny, with critics arguing he promotes toxic masculinity.[3][5] Kibe defends his stance as advocating for men’s mental health, stating, “Men are told to man up, but nobody listens to their struggles.”[7] Supporters view him as a voice for marginalized men, while detractors, particularly women’s rights advocates, claim he undermines gender equality by criticizing women’s societal roles.[3] His comments, such as calling feminism “a scam that destroys families,” have sparked heated debates on Kenyan social media, amplifying his polarizing presence.[19]
Kibe’s public feuds have further fueled his controversial image. He has clashed with celebrities like gospel singer Bahati over parenting choices and former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko over political integrity, often using his platform to critique their actions.[2] In 2024, Kibe targeted influencers like Eric Omondi, Mungai Eve, Thee Pluto, Felicity Shiru, and politician Martha Karua, accusing them of hypocrisy or chasing clout, which intensified online debates.[3] His blunt style, described as “unforgiving” by observers, has made him a lightning rod for criticism, with some praising his candor and others decrying his personal attacks.[3] A notable 2025 incident involved a collaboration with food influencer Boina for a bread brand, where Kibe’s suggestive remarks, including asking who was “sexier” between Boina and another woman, were labeled “cringeworthy” and “sexist” by X user @Zolesa and others, prompting accusations of unprofessionalism.[30] Some fans defended the interaction as scripted, arguing it aligned with Kibe’s provocative persona.[30]
In 2021, unaddressed allegations that Kibe dated a 17-year-old surfaced, significantly damaging his reputation. He did not respond publicly, which critics cited as an admission of guilt, while supporters argued the claims lacked evidence.[29] The controversy resurfaced in media discussions, further polarizing his audience.[5] Kibe’s YouTube channels, which had 474,000 subscribers, were terminated in 2023 for violating community guidelines, a move Google Africa’s Dorothy Ooko attributed to Kibe using alternate accounts to bypass restrictions.[31] Kibe claimed the ban was due to “envy” from unnamed forces, rallying his fans against “cancel culture.”[32] These incidents, combined with his political comments, such as his 2023 interest in the Lang’ata seat, have cemented Kibe’s status as a divisive figure, admired for his boldness by some and condemned for his insensitivity by others.[13]
Awards
Andrew Kibe’s provocative content and digital media presence have earned him recognition, most notably at the 2023 South African Social Media Awards (SASMA), where he won the Social Media African Star of the Year.[25] The award, presented in October 2023, celebrated Kibe’s influence as a content creator, particularly through his YouTube channel and [Yafreeka](https://home.yafreeka.com/) platform, despite his channels’ termination earlier that year for violating YouTube’s guidelines.[5][2] Kibe outshone nominees like Nigerian comedian Shank Comics, South African financial influencer Nicolette Mashile, and Zimbabwean creator William Last, a testament to his continental reach.[33] He expressed excitement over the win, stating, “This is for the fans who’ve stuck with me through the bans and drama,” as shared on social media platforms like X.[34] Fans celebrated the achievement, with posts on X calling him “Kifee” and praising his resilience, though some critics argued his controversial views on gender roles made the win divisive.[35]
The SASMA win highlighted Kibe’s ability to maintain influence amid adversity, particularly after losing his YouTube platform, which had 474,000 subscribers and 160 million views.[20] His launch of Yafreeka, aimed at uncensored African content, was seen as a bold response to mainstream censorship, further solidifying his appeal to fans who value his unfiltered style.[5] While no other formal awards are documented, Kibe has garnered significant informal recognition in Kenya’s digital media scene, with fans and peers acknowledging his role in reshaping online content creation.[4] His polarizing persona, marked by feuds and allegations, has not diminished his fanbase’s support, as evidenced by the enthusiastic response to his 2023 award.[33]
| Award | Category | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| South African Social Media Awards | Social Media African Star of the Year | 2023 | Won[25][33] |
Legacy and influence
Andrew Kibe has transformed Kenya’s media landscape by leveraging digital platforms to deliver unfiltered commentary, transitioning from a radio host to a digital influencer with a global reach.[1] His creation of Yafreeka represents a pioneering effort to build an African-owned platform for uncensored content, potentially reshaping how creators navigate digital spaces.[22] “I want Africans to own their narrative, not beg for space on foreign platforms,” he stated, reflecting his vision for Yafreeka’s impact.[5] His planned return to Kenya to expand the platform and mentor young creators signals a commitment to fostering the next generation of content creators.[5]
Kibe’s focus on men’s empowerment and mental health has sparked vital conversations, particularly among young men who feel marginalized by societal expectations.[5] His emphasis on financial independence, self-improvement, and resilience resonates with a segment of his audience, who see him as a voice for the underrepresented.[14] However, his controversial views on gender and relationships have drawn criticism for perpetuating division, with detractors arguing that his rhetoric undermines gender equality.[3] This duality—champion to some, provocateur to others—defines Kibe’s complex legacy.
His journey from a struggling youth in Nairobi to a polarizing media figure underscores his resilience and adaptability.[4] Despite setbacks—failed ventures, a terminated YouTube channel, and personal controversies—Kibe has maintained relevance through innovation and authenticity. His influence extends beyond entertainment, shaping discussions on free speech, gender dynamics, and the role of digital media in modern Kenya.[21] As he prepares to return to Kenya, Kibe’s legacy continues to evolve, embodying both the risks and rewards of unfiltered expression.
External links
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