CESS MUTUNGI ON LEAVING RADIO AFTER 20 YEARS AND BEING MISTAKEN FOR A MAN

Radio presenter Cess Mutungi, has revealed the reason why she left her radio job after 20 years.

Known as the Radio Queen for her dominance in drive-time slots and her ability to captivate audiences, Mutungi insists this is not the end, only a new beginning. “Leaving radio was a choice. Everybody needs a break,” Mutungi shared. “I’ve been on every single drive-time show in my country. My bosses have loved me because I’m a money-maker. But with age comes the need to change and give back.”

Reflecting on her illustrious career, she added, “It’s been fabulous. I’ve reached my glass ceiling, there’s nothing more, in my view, to achieve on radio. Of course, there’s another level, which is where I want to go. The voice remains the voice.” That next level? Podcasting. Mutungi revealed her desire to explore the digital space, where she can continue connecting with audiences in fresh, innovative ways.

She also opened up about her humble beginnings, recalling a time when her voice wasn’t the commanding presence listeners know today. “I didn’t always sound like this. I had a high, squeaky voice. I spoke too fast, swallowed my words,” she laughed. 

Mutungi also disclosed a time she called a government office and she was mistaken for a man because of her voice, “Once, I called a government office, and they said, ‘How are you, sir?’ I said, ‘I’m a madam!’ They replied, ‘But you sound like a sir!’”