One on one with Zubeida Kananu

Zubeida Kananu Koome is a Political Editor, producer and Swahili news anchor at KTN News. She schooled at Kenya School of Professional Studies, Shang’ Tao Media Arts College and Crossworld Institute. She graduated with a Diploma in Journalism. She later joined Africa Nazarene University, Nairobi where she graduated with a degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution. She’s currently doing her Masters in Governance, Peace and Security at the same University.We had a chat with her about her career and here’s what she had to say

What do you do when you are not on TV?

I’m either doing school work or at I’m at home watching movies or documentaries. I also watch food channels.

How is your day as a presenter and producer?

My days are quite hectic because I have to get interesting and interactive topics to discuss on air. I have to research a lot on what I will feed my audience. To sustain an audience you need to be unique and outstanding.

What are your best moments as an anchor?

I feel good when action is taken on an issue we have discussed on air. Positive response about the show from my viewers also makes me feel good.

If you were not an anchor, what would you be?

I would be a musician. I have even recorded a number of songs and I sing at church. However, I always wanted to be a Journalist since I was young. I was in the journalism club in primary school where my teachers helped me to grow in my confidence. Later in high school I was the chairperson of the journalism club. I would gather news stories from newspapers and present them in the school assembly

Why did you decide to pursue peace and conflict studies and not communication studies?

There is conflict everywhere and I want to help solve it. It pains me when people are not at peace. It pains me when I read news about death especially when it is brutal.

You did a documentary on former president Moi when he turned 90.How was the experience?

I had not planned for it. I was in school doing exams and after my last paper I was told to pack because they had booked interviews with presidents from different countries. It was a good experience. I had a great time travelling to the different countries.

What can you tell women who are aspiring to be like you?

Don’t be like me, be yourself. You can always be mentored and guided by someone you look up to or admire, but you can’t be them. So I would advise you to do what you’re passionate about. Follow your heart and be as natural as possible