Kenya’s entertainment scene is brimming with extraordinary talent, and its female celebrities are at the forefront, shaping and redefining the industry.
From chart-topping musicians and acclaimed actresses to influential social media personalities and savvy entrepreneurs, these Kenyan female celebrities are making waves locally and internationally. Each has carved out her unique niche, captivating audiences with their charisma, creativity, and undeniable talent, making the people of Kenya proud.
These women stand out not just for their professional achievements but also for their personal stories of resilience, passion, and innovation. They are trendsetters, role models, and pioneers in their respective fields, contributing to a rich tapestry of Kenyan talent that deserves recognition.
Ahead are 15 Kenyan female celebrities, representing a diverse and talented group of women who are shaping the entertainment industry and leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Kambua Manundu
Kambua Manundu is a renowned Kenyan gospel artist whose deep faith in God has touched the lives of many. Known for her inspiring music and strong social media presence, Kambua has been a media personality, hosting Citizen TV’s Gospel Sunday show, “Rauka,” for 12 years before stepping down in January 2022. Some of her popular songs include “Nishikilie,” “Shukrani,” “Neema,” “Umetenda Mema,” and “Anatimiza.”
In 2008, she achieved a major milestone by winning the Kisima Female Artiste of the Year award. The following year, in 2009, Manundu continued her success by scoring the Groove Female Artiste of the Year.
These significant accomplishments, along with her growing influence in the Kenyan music industry, opened up new opportunities for her. As a result, she has been invited countless times to serve as a host and MC for numerous events, further establishing her presence and reputation in the industry.
Kambua is married to Pastor Mathu, and they share a son together.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Janet Mbugua
Janet Mbugua is a highly respected media figure in Kenya, known for her work as a television host, news anchor, and award-winning corporate emcee. With years of news reporting, anchoring, and producing, this Kenyan female celebrity has made a lasting impact on the media landscape in both Kenya and South Africa.
Beyond her media career, Janet is a well-known advocate for social issues, using her voice and platform to reach her millions of followers on Instagram. She is the founder of Inua Dada, an initiative dedicated to empowering girls and uplifting communities, with a strong focus on menstrual health and youth advocacy. Through programs like the Generation Parliament, Janet is also actively involved in nurturing future leaders who are passionate about social change, known as Inua Dada Voices.
Janet’s work goes beyond media and advocacy; she is committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for girls, ensuring their rights are upheld and their voices heard. Her efforts contribute to building a better world for girls and the communities they live in.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Betty Kyalo
Betty Mutei Kyalo is one of the most recognized Kenyan female celebrities. Known for her work as a TV presenter, Betty has made her mark in the Kenyan entertainment industry, having worked with major TV stations like K24 and KTN.
She began her career at Kenya Television Network (KTN), where she initially worked as an intern. Due to her talent and dedication, she was soon promoted to the role of news anchor, hosting the 9 pm news segment, “Friday Briefing.” During this show, she had the opportunity to invite and interview various guests.
After her time at KTN, she moved to K24, where she hosted the popular weekend program “Up Close with Betty.” Following her stint at K24, she decided to venture into entrepreneurship and launched her own salon and spa business in Kilimani, named Flair by Betty. Not stopping there, in mid-2021, she expanded her business portfolio by opening Aftershave by Flair Barbershop and Bk Closet.
Betty’s influence and popularity in the entertainment industry caught the attention of Showmax, which, on June 17, 2022, premiered a new Kenyan reality series titled “Kyallo Kulture.” The show gave viewers an inside look at the lives of Betty and her sisters, Mercy and Gloria.
After taking a four-year hiatus from television, Betty Kyalo announced her return to the screen in May 2024. She made her comeback as a news anchor with her new show, “This Friday with Betty,” which airs at 9 pm on TV 47.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Tanasha Donna
Tanasha Donna Oketch is a multifaceted Kenyan female celebrity talent known for her work as a model, singer, entrepreneur, and former radio presenter at NRG Radio.
From a young age, Tanasha developed a deep passion for fashion, music, and modeling during her time in Belgium. This interest eventually brought her back to Kenya, where she competed in the Miss World Kenya pageant, showcasing her beauty and poise on a national stage.
In 2022, Tanasha expanded her talents into acting, making her debut in the film “Symphony,” which premiered on September 9. Her decision to pursue music came after completing a degree in Tourism, realizing that her true calling lay in the music industry. Tanasha recorded her first single with Nviiri the Storyteller, although it didn’t gain much traction initially.
Her breakthrough came when she appeared in the music video for “Nagharamia” alongside Alikiba and Christian Bella, which drew significant attention to her as an emerging artist. The musician began to make serious strides in her music career. She released her single “Radio” featuring her co-host and friend Barak Jacuzzi, marking the start of her rise in the music industry.
With each release, Tanasha Donna has continued to make waves, dropping hit after hit. Her relationship with Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz further amplified her music career, leading to several collaborations with Diamond and Mbosso, among others.
Tanasha’s efforts in the music industry have not gone unnoticed. She has been nominated for several prestigious awards, including the Best Female Artist for East, South, and North Africa at the African Entertainment Awards USA in 2020 and 2021. She was nominated for Best Female East Africa at the 8th African Muzik Magazine Awards in 2021 and Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa at the All Africa Music Awards in 2022.
Tanasha Donna continues to be a prominent female celebrity in the Kenyan entertainment scene, showcasing her talents across multiple fields and earning recognition for her contributions to the industry.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Lillian Muli
Lillian Muli is a prominent Kenyan news anchor and journalist with over years of experience in the industry.
Muli’s journey in the Kenyan media industry began in 2005 when she joined the creation division at KTN. Though her early efforts didn’t immediately pay off, her breakthrough came when she delivered some scripts to the judges at Standard Media. They were so impressed by her skills and potential that it marked the start of her rise in journalism. Six years later, Lilian decided to move on from KTN and transitioned to Citizen Television, where she has become a familiar face and continues to thrive.
At Citizen TV, Lilian has not only anchored the news but has also hosted several popular shows. One of her most notable programs was the “Slim Possible Show,” which gained a large following by encouraging women to lose weight with the promise of a coveted prize at the end of the challenge. This show, along with her other work, solidified her reputation as a talented and influential media personality.
Lilian Muli is now recognized as one of the highest-paid journalists in Kenya, with a reported salary of Ksh. 250,000 and above. Beyond her successful career in television, she is also a savvy businesswoman. She owns La Modelle Spa, a luxurious establishment that adds to her wealth. Muli’s success is evident in her lifestyle, which includes a taste for the finer things in life.
A glimpse into her home reveals her refined and exquisite taste, while her choice of cars—like the sleek Mazda she recently showed off on social media and the Land Rover SV Autobiography Dynamic she owned in 2017, worth around 17.6 million Kenya shillings—demonstrates her love for cars.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Julie Gichuru
Julie Gichuru is a distinguished media professional and entrepreneur, known for her work as the Founder and CEO of Arimus Media Limited. Her company is dedicated to “igniting possibilities” by producing engaging, educational, and informative African content, as well as organizing events and engagements.
Julie also serves as the Chief Public Affairs and Communications Officer at the Mastercard Foundation, where she manages communications for corporate, programmatic, policy, and thought leadership initiatives, overseeing a team that spans Africa and Canada.
The media icon’s career began with a focus on investigative journalism, where she pioneered television news and programming. She played a key role in creating and launching several major news and current affairs shows, including the widely recognized pan-African television program, “Africa Leadership Dialogues”.
Her work during the 2007 elections, particularly her peace specials, had a significant impact, leading to her being awarded the Martin Luther King Salute to Greatness in 2008 for her efforts to promote non-violence.
Julie has earned numerous accolades for her contributions to media and leadership. In 2019, Avance Media named her one of the 100 Most Influential African Women, and New African listed her as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Victoria Kimani
Victoria Kimani is one of the most popular Kenyan female celebrities you should know. She is renowned for her talent and down-to-earth nature in the global music scene.
Known for her authenticity and unique style, Victoria made her mark in the music industry with a standout performance in 2010, remixing the popular song “Oleku” by Ice Prince of Chocolate City Music Label. This performance caught the attention of a Nigerian music executive, leading to her being signed as the label’s first female artist in late 2012.
Victoria debuted with her single “Mtoto” in 2013, which was followed by a series of mixtapes including “Oya,” “Heaven,” “Hate Me,” “F.U.M.F,” “Open Up Your Heart,” and “Do What You Want.” In 2014, she released “Show,” produced by Nigeria’s Tekno, and “Prokoto,” a collaboration with Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz and Ommy Dimpoz. The following year, she released several hits including “Vex,” featuring Cynthia Morgan and Emmy Nyra, “Two of Dem,” “Loving You” with Ice Prince, and “Booty Bounce.”
Kimani’s collaborations extend beyond these releases; she worked with Cobhams Asuquo and seven other African female artists on the empowering track “Strong Girl.” Her advocacy for women’s empowerment and critique of male chauvinism is prominent, as she highlights the challenges women face in their careers and celebrates those who overcome obstacles.
Victoria Kimani’s talent has been recognized with numerous awards, including Channel O Music Video Awards for Most Gifted Newcomer and Most Gifted RnB Video in 2013, Africa Musik Magazine Awards for Best Female Artist-East Africa and Best Female Artist in 2014, African Entertainment Awards USA for Best International Female Artist in 2015, and Kora Awards for Best Female Artist-East Africa in 2016. She has also appeared in the film “7 Inch Curve.”
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Rosemary Wahu Kagwi
Rosemary Wahu Kagwi is a legendary female celebrity in the Kenyan music industry, having maintained her relevance for over two decades.
Kagwi has made a significant impact on Kenyan music, captivating audiences with her hit songs from the early 2000s, like “Niangalie,” to her more recent track, “This Love,” released in 2021. Known for her beauty and talent, Wahu serves as a role model for achieving dreams while enjoying the journey.
Her professional music career began in 2000 with her debut single “Niangalie.” The song was well-received across Africa, marking the start of her successful career on the continent. Other early singles like “Esha” and “Liar” helped establish her as a prominent artist. A notable hit, “Sitishiki,” was released in the same year she married fellow musician Nameless.
Wahu’s music spans both gospel and secular genres, and her talent has earned her numerous awards and nominations, both locally and internationally. Some of her notable achievements include:
– Pearl of Africa Music Awards: Best Kenyan Female Artist (2006)
– MOBO Awards: Best African Act (2008)
– MTV Africa Music Awards: Best Newcomer (2008) and Best Female (2008)
– CHAT Awards: Favourite Female Artist (2008)
In addition to her music career, Wahu is a social media star, actively engaging with fans on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. She also stars in a reality show titled “This Love,” which airs on Showmax and features her family life. Beyond entertainment, Wahu owns a salon in Nairobi called Afro Siri.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Diana Bahati
Diana Marua, also known as Diana Bahati, Diana B, or Auntie Madooh, is a well-known female celebrity in Kenya YouTuber, social media influencer, celebrity wife, and rapper.
Since starting her music career in 2015, Diana Bahati has made a significant impact with her work, releasing several singles and two acclaimed albums. Her first album, “The Voice”, was launched in 2017 and featured collaborations with some of the most prominent names in East African music.
The album quickly gained popularity in Kenya and Tanzania, establishing Diana as a rising star. In 2019, she followed up with her second album, “In Control”, which also achieved gold certification in Kenya, just like her debut album.
Bahati’s influence extends beyond her music. She has become a role model for Kenyan youth, known for her upbeat songs with catchy hooks that resonate with a diverse audience. Her energetic live performances and willingness to work with international artists, including American rapper Rick Ross, have further solidified her reputation.
Diana’s success has paved the way for many aspiring musicians in Kenya, showing that it’s possible to achieve great things in the music industry. By maintaining a strong presence both online and offline, Diana Bahati has built a dedicated fan base that supports her career and music.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Adelle Onyango
Adelle Onyango is a prominent Kenyan media personality, known for her impactful work in empowering African women and youth. She is the Founder of Legally Clueless Africa and the Adelle Onyango Initiative.
Her efforts have earned her international acclaim, with recognition including being named one of Facebook’s 2019 Icons of Change, the Africa Youth Awards 100 Most Influential Young Africans for 2019, OkayAfrica’s 100 Extraordinary African Women for 2018, and BBC’s 100 Inspirational and Innovative Women in the World for 2017.
Onyango boasts over a decade of experience in the radio industry. She began her career as a drive show host on 1FM, where she played a key role in introducing a digital approach to Kenyan radio. She then joined Kenya’s leading media company, Radio Africa Group, where she worked at KissFM.
There, she hosted the mid-morning show and created an innovative program dedicated exclusively to African music, a first for the station. Adelle later took on the role of host for the prime breakfast show, which became the third most popular radio show in Kenya during her tenure, until she left in June 2019 to focus on her new media venture.
In addition to her media career, Adelle is the founder of The Adelle Onyango Initiative (AOI). This organization focuses on creating programs that help Kenyan youth prepare for employment or entrepreneurship. AOI also provides psycho-social support to African women who have survived rape. The initiative boasts over 4,300 registered members who benefit from job shadowing and mentorship programs.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Sarah Hassan
Sarah Hassan is a distinguished actress, producer, and TV host who has earned numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Widely recognized as one of Africa’s top actors and TV personalities, Sarah’s journey in the entertainment industry began at a young age when she was 5 years old
Sarah gained widespread fame with her role as Tanya in the popular high school drama “Tahidi High” on Citizen TV. This role catapulted her into the limelight and earned her the Best Actress award at the CHAT Awards in 2010 and 2011. Since then, she has appeared in numerous TV shows and films, demonstrating her versatility and talent across various genres.
Sarah’s impressive list of achievements includes awards for Best Lead Actress in 2014 for “Now That You’re Here”, Best TV Host at the Kalasha Awards in 2014 for “Discovery+ 254”, and Best East African Journalist in 2015 at the Swahili Fashion Week for “Mashariki Mix” and “Maisha Max”. She has also received accolades for her roles in “Plan B” (Best Lead Actress and Best Film at the Kalasha Awards 2019 and AMVCA Awards in 2019), “40 Sticks” (Best Film at the Kalasha Awards 2020), and “Just In Time” (Best Lead Actress in 2021). More recently, she won Best Lead Actress in a TV Series for “Zari” in 2023.
Through her production company, Alfajiri Productions, Sarah has been actively involved behind the camera as well. She produced “The Company You Keep”, the East African/West African romantic comedy “Plan B”, which has garnered over 6 million views on YouTube, the short film “Reflections”, the family comedy-drama “Just In Time” (which premiered on Netflix), and the Netflix and UNESCO short film “Anyango And The Ogre”. She also served as lead producer for the Kenyan thriller “40 Sticks”, which is streaming on Netflix and won eight awards at the Kalasha Awards.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Brenda Wairimu
Brenda Wairimu is a leading force in Kenya’s entertainment industry, rising from her beginnings as a media personality and fashion designer to establishing herself as one of the country’s most celebrated actresses. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with significant achievements that highlight her dedication and talent.
Brenda first made her mark in television in 2009, playing the role of Shareefah in the drama series ‘Changing Times,’ where she starred alongside well-known actors like Nice Githinji and Ian Mugoya. Her captivating performance quickly caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to her breakthrough role as the lead actress in the popular Kenyan soap opera ‘Mali’ in 2011. This role cemented her reputation as a rising star in the television world.
Her success in ‘Mali’ was just the beginning. In 2013, Brenda took on the role of Pamela Oyange in the drama series ‘Kona,’ a show that quickly became a fan favorite, airing over 25 episodes and further establishing her as a sought-after actress in Kenya’s entertainment scene.
Brenda’s talents extend far beyond television. She has made a significant impact in the film industry as well. In 2012, she starred in the award-winning series ‘Shuga,’ where she played the character Dala. Her versatility as an actress was on full display as she took on diverse roles in projects like ‘Skandals Kibao’ and the critically acclaimed series ‘Monica’ in 2018, where she delivered a standout performance in just 26 episodes.
Her exceptional work has not gone unnoticed, as Brenda has received numerous awards throughout her career. In 2019, she was honored with the Best Actress Award at the Kalasha Awards. The following year, her contributions to the film industry were recognized with the Women in Film Award. Brenda’s talent has also been acknowledged on the international stage, earning her the Best Actor in East Africa at the Lake International Pan African Film Festival and the Sotigui Awards in Burkina Faso.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Linet Munyali (Size 8 Reborn)
Size 8, whose real name is Linet Munyali, is a well-known Kenyan musician, actress, media personality, and brand ambassador. She first gained widespread recognition with her debut single, “Shamba Boy,” which marked the beginning of her successful career in the Kenyan entertainment industry. Since then, Linet Munyali has become one of the most prominent female celebrities in Kenya.
Initially, Munyali made her mark in the secular music scene. Her early career was highlighted by her association with Calif Records, where she was discovered by producer Clemo during a talent search. Under this label, the East African singer released popular songs like “Shamba Boy” and “Moto,” which established her as a leading artist from 2008 to 2013. During this time, she was one of the most sought-after performers in the music industry.
In April 2013, Linet Munyali made a surprising shift to the gospel music industry, a move that garnered considerable attention and skepticism. Despite leaving behind her earlier secular hits, she embraced her new direction with enthusiasm.
Beyond her music career, Size 8 has made significant contributions as a media personality. Alongside her husband, she co-hosts “Dine with the Murayas” on NTV, a popular talk show that explores themes of marriage and relationships. The show has become one of the most-watched programs on Kenyan television, thanks to its engaging discussions on intimate topics.
Overall, Size 8 has made a notable impact in various fields, from music to television and radio, demonstrating her versatility and influence in the Kenyan entertainment industry.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Akothee Esther
Esther Akoth Kokeyo, better known as Akothee, is considered one of the wealthiest Kenyan female celebrities, with an estimated net worth of Sh1.3 billion.
She is widely recognized for her musical talent, business acumen, and dancing skills. Before rising to fame in the music and tourism industries, she worked in various jobs, including selling Omena (fish) and driving a taxi in Mombasa.
Today, Akothee is a successful artist with a number of popular songs including, “Sweet Love,” a collaboration with Diamond Platnumz, and “Give It to Me,” featuring Nigerian artist Flavour. Her musical career began in 2008, and she has continued to release both solo tracks and collaborations with other artists.
Kenyan Female Celebrity: Susan Kaitanny
Susan Kaittany is a well-known Kenyan entrepreneur recognized for her role as the CEO of Posh Palace, a prominent beauty salon located in Kilimani, Kenya. In addition to her success in the beauty industry, she is a former model and a trained lawyer.
From a young age, Susan Kaittany had a strong interest in fashion, which led her into the modeling world and beauty pageants. In 2004, she was a finalist in the Miss World Kenya pageant. The following year, she won the Miss Earth pageant and represented Kenya on the international stage. However, she became disillusioned with the modeling industry due to low pay and poor treatment, which prompted her to shift towards building a beauty brand.
Susan’s notable business venture, Posh Palace, began as a collaboration with her former friend Betty Kyallo. After their partnership ended, Kaittany took full ownership of the salon and has since expanded it significantly. In 2021, she launched a luxury perfume line called Polished by Posh, further broadening her business portfolio.
Kaittany has also made her mark in television as a cast member of the reality TV show “Real Housewives of Nairobi,” which premiered on Showmax in February 2023.
Her ventures, including the highly successful Posh Palace and her family’s travel business, contribute to her significant financial standing. Susan revealed that she invested Ksh 40 million in Posh Palace, and with her other assets and luxury cars, her net worth is estimated to be over Ksh 50 million.
