Popular Swahili radio presenter Ali Salim Mwayogwe, widely known as Shugaboy, has exited the Standard Media-owned Radio Maisha after nine years on the morning show.
In a statement dated Friday, February 27, 2026, Shugaboy revealed that he is leaving his position to focus on politics and agriculture.
“Today marks the end of my tenure at Radio Maisha. WOOOOW, it has been a nine-year sweet ride here. I came in very virgin, and now I’m leaving fully equipped. I came in as a boy, leaving as a mature man. I came in broke, now leaving as a multi-millionaire,” said the popular radio presenter.
The presenter expressed his disbelief at leaving the station, stressing the deep connection he has with Radio Maisha, describing them as inseparable.
He reflected on the mix of good and challenging experiences he has had over the years, noting that this journey has helped shape and strengthen him.
He also reflected on the many achievements he has made during his nine years at Radio Maisha. Over this period, he managed to buy three personal cars, a Crown, a Vitz, and a Lexus, as well as two 14-seater matatus and a tuk-tuk.
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He also acquired five motorcycles, opened a liquor joint, invested in two Swahili-style rental houses, and began constructing a five-bedroom home.
In addition, he purchased four plots of land and proudly maintained the ability to provide himself with three meals a day and cover rent consistently throughout his time at the station.
He added that he is proud of his accomplishments at Radio Maisha, jokingly saying that the above should not make anyone envy him if he faces challenges.
“Thanks to everyone, we enjoyed the ride together. Ni wengi, can’t mention,” said Shugaboy.
He also noted that he will not be joining any other media house unless the pay exceeds Ksh 700,000 per month, non-negotiable.
“Bye my love, Radio Maisha. Tuko mbele pamoja,” said Shugaboy.
Following his exit, Kenyans congratulated him as he pursued other endeavours.
A user, Tabbie Ke, said: “It was nice listening to your morning show. Well done, you have left a legacy to be remembered.”
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Jane Wangechi commented: “Hongera sana Kaka Shugaboy. Patience and working smart pays. All the best in your next endeavors.”
There are also speculations that the radio presenter might be heading to Radio 47, a media outlet owned by Cape Media.
“He’s set for a new challenge, and maybe Radio 47 might absorb him. He’s set to receive a new offer of Ksh 700,000 as a monthly salary. Head of Radio 47, Geoffrey Mung’ou, will interview him on Saturday,” said Laban Mbunya.
Shugaboy (co-hosted the popular Maisha Asubuhi breakfast show on Radio Maisha alongside Main Man Rio.
Earlier, he also hosted the morning show with Emmanuel Mwashumbe before Mwashumbe’s departure.
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Photo of Radio Maisha Studios. PHOTO/Radio Maisha