Samuel Macharia has used his financial resources to exert considerable sway in the Kenyan media landscape. He has done this in part by amassing a large number of frequencies, making him the go-to person for advice whenever a new radio station is proposed in Kenya.
A dispute over Sh. 1.2 billion in property had been brewing between SK Macharia and his grandson Adam Kamau.
The contentious estate had holdings in over six different companies involved in insurance, communications, and real estate.
Forbes magazine named Samuel Macharia one of Africa’s top 10 rising billionaires in 2012. In 2013, Macharia was named one of the 50 most influential Africans by Africa Report.
As of the year 2016, 62.5% of Kenya’s television audience watches Citizen TV, which is owned by Samuel Macharia.
It is estimated that 80% of Kenyans tune in to one of the radio stations owned by Samuel Macharia’s Royal Media Services (the major radio station, Radio Citizen, with a 43% market share).
The billionaire used to own the ostentatious restaurant on Kiambu road. The restaurant provided a relaxing atmosphere and tasty food for its patrons. The restaurant apparently closed down, according to reliable sources.
His fortune is thought to be worth more than 40 billion Kes.
