Our Comms Spotlight for this week first fell in love with Communications through radio. He was drawn to the voices and the way they told stories that ignited his imagination. Chiimbiru Gimode currently works as the Principal Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Officer at the Communications Authority of Kenya. In his interview with us, he shares about his journey, what keeps him grounded, and why real Comms work starts with listening.
How did you get started in the field of Communications?
Communication has always been the heartbeat of my life. As a child growing up in the vibrant 90s, I was captivated by the voices on the radio, their words sparking my imagination and igniting a lifelong dream. Even before I understood what Journalism truly meant, I knew I was destined to tell stories that matter.
My journey wasn’t without its hurdles. For instance, missing the university cut-off points could have ended my dream, but it only fueled my determination. I found my path at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, where I immersed myself in broadcast journalism. That first job as a radio journalist felt like stepping into a world I’d always known, and each day behind the microphone deepened my resolve.
When the opportunity arose to join the Communications Authority of Kenya, I embraced it as a new adventure, eager to shape narratives on a national scale. Along the way, I pursued further studies first a double major undergraduate degree in Political Science and Communication at the University of Nairobi, then a master’s in International Relations from the University of Nairobi, and now undertaking a PhD in Corporate Communication at Daystar University in Kenya.
I have also undergone extensive training in Public Relations and Communication, and a strong passion for international relations, particularly the place of emerging technologies in shaping global politics. Fourteen years on, my passion burns brighter than ever. I am driven by a calling to use strategic communication to inspire change, empower others, and make a lasting impact.
Tell us about your role as Principal Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Officer at the Communications Authority of Kenya.
As a regulatory agency for ICTs in Kenya, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is leading the country’s digital transformation agenda, ensuring citizens can access quality communications services and becoming active participants in national development and the global digital economy.
Given that we regulate a fairly complex ecosystem, my business really is to ensure that our various stakeholders not only understand but also can feel the impact of the work that we do. Therefore, every day in my role is a chance to shape how the nation sees and understands my organisation. My role entails crafting and executing strategies that don’t just inform—they inspire trust, foster connection, and build our brand’s legacy.
Whether I’m steering the organisation through a crisis, championing our corporate social responsibility, or measuring the impact and value of our community initiatives, I am part of a team that acts as the bridge between the Authority and the people we serve. My mission therefore is to ensure our story is not only heard but truly felt—leaving a mark on every stakeholder we touch.
What’s one challenge you’ve faced in your career, and how did you handle it?
The greatest test of my career has been reconciling the idealism of professionalism with the unpredictable realities of the workplace. In theory, everything is neat and structured; in practice, it’s a whirlwind of shifting priorities, diverse audiences, and organisational dynamics.
I’ve learned that adaptability is not just a skill, it’s a lifeline. By embracing continuous learning and tuning in to the unique rhythms of each situation, I’ve transformed challenges into opportunities for growth. Every obstacle has taught me to listen more deeply, think more creatively, and lead with empathy.
What do you enjoy most about working in Communications?
For me, communications is more than a job, it’s a calling to make a difference. There’s a profound joy in translating complex ideas into messages that resonate and empower. Each successful project, each moment when a stakeholder truly understands and feels connected, reminds me why I chose this path.
The collaborative spirit of our field, the thrill of working alongside passionate teams, and the satisfaction of seeing our collective efforts spark real change. These are the moments that fill me with pride and purpose.
Tell us about a campaign you’ve worked on that stands out to you till date.
Some campaigns leave an indelible mark on your soul. I’ll never forget the adrenaline and pride of leading our organisation’s rebranding in 2014—pouring my heart into every detail, working tirelessly to ensure our new identity would shine. The digital migration campaign in 2015 was another defining moment.
As a public affairs campaign, we were facing public skepticism from various stakeholders, we had to win hearts and minds while ushering in a new era for Kenyan Television broadcasting. I’ve also had the privilege of supporting Kenya’s leadership bids on the global ICT stage in 2014, 2018 and 2022, helping our nation’s voice be heard in international forums.
These experiences taught me the power of perseverance, the importance of teamwork, and the profound impact of a well-told story.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field of Communications?
Let your passion be your compass. When you love what you do, every challenge becomes a stepping stone and every success, a shared victory. Stay curious, embrace new trends, and never stop learning the world of communication is ever-evolving.
Remember, as Aristotle said, “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” Start with an open heart and a willing spirit, and you’ll find that your voice can move mountains and inspire change.
