Larry Madowo is one of Africa’s most recognizable journalists — a Kenyan-born reporter who has worked for major global outlets including the BBC and CNN.
He’s known for sharp reporting, smart interviews, and a career that has spanned entertainment, business and hard news. This biography traces his early life, education, professional milestones and achievements.
Early life and background
Larry Madowo was born on 14 July 1987 in Siaya County, Kenya. He grew up in a rural environment and experienced personal hardships early in life, including the loss of his parents while still young — events that shaped his drive and resilience. Details of his childhood and family life have been covered in Kenyan media profiles and interviews.
Education
Madowo’s academic path is notable for its mix of local and international training. He studied communications and pursued higher-level journalism qualifications. Most prominently, he was a Knight-Bagehot fellow and earned a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism — a credential that helped him deepen his expertise in business and economics reporting.
Early career: from local shows to national spotlight
Larry first made waves in Kenya as a presenter and digital-age media personality. He hosted and produced shows that blended pop culture with current affairs, gaining a following among younger viewers. His talent for connecting with audiences helped him transition from local media into regional and then international journalism roles.
BBC years — business and North America correspondent
Madowo’s international career accelerated with the BBC, where he took on roles including BBC Africa Business Editor and later North America Correspondent based in Washington D.C. At the BBC he built business reporting teams, launched new programs across languages, and covered major global events including U.S. politics and social movements.
Move to CNN and current work
In 2021 Larry Madowo joined CNN as an international correspondent based in Nairobi. At CNN he reports on major African stories for global audiences, anchors segments, and hosts features highlighting leaders and changemakers across the continent. His work at CNN has broadened his platform and given him a regular seat at the table for breaking regional stories.
Style and strengths
Madowo is known for a conversational but incisive interviewing style. He frequently blends human stories with economic and political context, making complex issues accessible to broad audiences. That adaptability — moving from entertainment-focused programs to deeply reported business and political coverage — is one reason he remains in demand at global networks.
Awards, recognition and thought leadership
Larry has received recognition for his journalism and leadership beyond the newsroom. He was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and has been listed among influential Africans in industry roundups. He also speaks at conferences and participates in panels on media, technology and Africa’s place in global affairs.
Challenges and controversies
Like many public-facing journalists, Madowo has faced scrutiny and criticism at times — from how stories are framed to coverage choices. He’s discussed challenges openly in interviews, including the pressures of reporting across time zones and the need to navigate political sensitivities while maintaining journalistic standards.
Personal life
Larry keeps much of his private life discreet. Public profiles reference his family background and early losses, and note his close connections to Kenyan communities and cultural roots. He is also active on social media, where he engages with audiences and shares reporting highlights.
Legacy and influence
Madowo’s career shows how a journalist from a small Kenyan village can reach global platforms through persistence, education, and adaptability. He has inspired younger African journalists and remains a visible example of how local storytelling can translate into international reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When and where was Larry Madowo born?
He was born on 14 July 1987 in Siaya County, Kenya.
What is Larry Madowo’s educational background?
He holds a master’s degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism (Knight-Bagehot/MA) and participated in advanced journalism fellowships.
Which major media organizations has he worked for?
Larry has worked at leading outlets such as the BBC (including as Africa Business Editor and North America Correspondent) and CNN as an international correspondent.
Has he received major awards or recognition?
Yes — he was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and has been recognized in lists of influential Africans.
Is Larry Madowo active on social media?
Yes — he is active on platforms such as X (Twitter) where he shares reporting and commentary.
Where can I watch his reporting?
His reports appear on CNN International and archived segments can be found on network platforms and his personal/official pages.
Conclusion
Larry Madowo’s biography is a story of professional evolution: local presenter turned international correspondent. From early adversity in Kenya to degrees at prestigious institutions and reporting desks at the BBC and CNN, his journey highlights the power of journalism to connect local realities with global audiences. Whether you’re an aspiring journalist or an informed reader, his career offers lessons in adaptability, continuous learning and the importance of clear, contextual reporting.
