'Never underestimate your humble beginnings': How Cynthia Gichiri became Nakuru's top investigative journalist

Last year, an exposé sent shockwaves across the country, particularly in the agricultural sector. The disturbing revelation about the distribution of counterfeit fertiliser to farmers sparked a national uproar. Predictably, the report did not go down well with some, especially government officials.

The journalist behind the explosive story was Cynthia Gichiri, whose investigation fuelled the national debate on subsidised fertiliser.

Born and raised in Nakuru County, Cynthia's passion for journalism began during her high school years. Influenced by books such as A Man of the People, Walenisi, Aminata and Animal Farm, which highlighted the very challenges the country was facing at the time, particularly at the end of the KANU regime.

These books, she says, demonstrated the power of communication in articulating societal problems.

"I grew up in an environment where discussions about governance, tribalism, conflict and corruption were part of everyday life. Watching the news was considered sacred in many households, and as children we had to be quiet and attentive. I was deeply influenced by this culture," she says.

Cynthia's career as a journalist began in February 2008. After graduating, she struggled to find a job in the mainstream media in Nairobi and returned to Nakuru, where Sauti ya Mwananchi had recently opened its doors.

"I joined Sauti ya Mwananchi as deputy news editor and presenter, as well as hosting a current affairs programme called Kero Nyeti, which focused on issues affecting Nakuru and the Rift Valley region. I also worked briefly at Hero Radio, but it was at MBCI Radio, a church-owned station, that I began to pursue investigative journalism more seriously in an environment that allowed greater flexibility," she says.

Her transition from radio to investigative journalism, which ultimately won her the Journalist of the Year Award at the Nakuru Journalists Association Gala in 2024, was a pivotal moment in her career.

"Joining Africa Uncensored in 2021 was a major turning point for me. The transition from radio journalism to documentary production has been an exciting and rewarding journey and I am grateful for the support and mentorship of my team," she says.

Cynthia recalls that Fertile Deception -her award winning series on counterfeited fertiliser - began in September 2022, after receiving a tip-off from a whistleblower about illegal activities at a diatomite processing plant in Kariandusi.

To verify the claims, their team went undercover to secretly film the plant's operations. They also documented the process of purchasing the product from various National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots around the country.

The investigation took more than a year and involved laboratory tests, expert analysis and testimony from farmers to confirm that the product was fake.

"The verification process involved additional laboratory testing and scientific analysis of samples from various government depots," she explains.

"It wasn't without its challenges. Many of the affected farmers were afraid of retaliation, so we had to cancel interviews and trips several times, which delayed production. Some of the experts we approached were also concerned about the impact on their careers and businesses, but we managed to overcome these challenges by working as a team, finding alternative sources and staying focused."

The investigative piece paid off when it earned Cynthia the journalist of the year award from the Nakuru Journalists Association, making the victory even sweeter.

"I was overjoyed! They say a prophet is never accepted in his own hometown, so to receive my first award for Fertile Deception from the place where my journey began felt really special. I've won other awards, but nothing compares to the honour of having my peers in journalism recognise and appreciate my work," she says.

When asked what advice she would give to young aspiring journalists, especially women, Cynthia says: "Never underestimate your humble beginnings as they are the foundation of your future. Strive to do your best, ignore the distractions, focus on your goals and keep moving forward despite the challenges. Journalism still has immense potential, especially for women. Don't give up."

On International Women's Day, which celebrates women's achievements and promotes equality, Cynthia reflects on her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field. Having faced prejudice and obstacles throughout her career, she has learnt the value of patience with herself and strategic career planning.

"Women need allies who believe in our abilities - who understand our potential to lead. We also need more associations that support women journalists at the grassroots level to help them grow. Most importantly, women need to have confidence in themselves and their ability to succeed independently and become strong forces within the industry," she says.