Comedian David Oyando, known as Mulamwah, recently opened up about his departure from Milele FM, citing reasons that went beyond the typical career shift.
However, his exit also shines a light on deeper, systemic issues plaguing the radio station and its parent company, Mediamax Network Limited.
In an interview with Dr. Ofweneke on TV47, Mulamwah revealed that his decision to leave Milele FM in February 2025 after two years was primarily driven by a desire to expand his skill set and manage his increasingly demanding workload.
“It was a matter of building my portfolio since I started,” he explained, noting his diverse career path, which includes medical practice, MCing, and comedy.
“Niliingia radio at least nijue how it works, and I was mentored for 2 years, and I learned that it was a space that I had outgrown at the moment and added value to my CV.”
He also cited the difficulty of balancing his radio duties with other commitments.
“Mambo pia yalikuwa mengi na nikaona nilikuwa nimeshikika and I needed to free up myself and balance life with other things,” he stated.
While Mulamwah’s reasons are personal, they intersect with a broader narrative of dysfunction within Mediamax, the company that owns Milele FM.
Details of Mediamax’s toxic environment surfaced when disgruntled former employees leaked the information to blogger Cyprian Nyakundi.
Here are five major issues that are alleged to have contributed to a toxic work environment at Mediamax, potentially influencing Mulamwah’s decision:
1. Toxic Leadership and Micromanagement
Allegations have surfaced of a “dictatorship” under CEO Ken Ngaruiya and HR Head Lucy Kibicho, with claims of excessive micromanagement that stifles creativity and staff morale.
Managers are reportedly stripped of their authority, leading to a climate of fear and frustration.
This type of environment has led to low morale, and high turnover.
2. Unresolved Salary Cuts and Late Payments
Employees claim that salary cuts imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic have not been reversed, despite promises.
Salary delays are also rampant, with some staff reportedly forced to sleep in the office due to financial constraints.
This creates a stressful work environment and financial instability for employees.
3. Abrupt Dismissals and Job Insecurity
Mediamax is accused of a “relentless cycle of hiring and firing,” creating a climate of uncertainty and job insecurity.
This constant turnover has led to a lack of stability and a feeling of being undervalued among employees.
4. Medical Insurance Issues
Despite mandatory medical scheme contributions, employees allege they are often forced to pay for healthcare out of pocket, with reimbursements being inconsistent.
This breach of trust and financial burden adds to the already stressful work environment.
5. Poor Treatment of Suppliers and Financial Mismanagement
Allegations of delayed payments to suppliers and financial mismanagement, including unpaid rent leading to office space loss, paint a picture of a company in financial distress.
This has led to a general feeling of instability and a lack of confidence in the company’s future.
These allegations, combined with Mulamwah’s stated reasons, suggest a media house facing significant internal challenges.
The combination of personal career aspirations and a deteriorating work environment likely contributed to his decision to leave Milele FM.
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