Manasseh Karani Nyaga, known professionally as The Captain, is a co-host of 'Switch Board,' an interactive music program on Switch TV. The 34-year-old media personality has built a career spanning acting, modeling, and emceeing, with notable roles in Kenyan television productions.
The nickname 'The Captain' stems from Nyaga's self-described confidence and leadership style, which he says defines his on-screen presence. His television career began after a screen test organized by Switch TV's programming head, following years of unpaid hosting gigs and auditions. 'I had been trying to be a TV host for four years... I came in, did my thing and they loved it,' he recalled.
On 'Switch Board,' Nyaga collaborates with Daniel Peters, Anne Mwaura, and DJ Sami Flinch. The show, which airs Friday to Sunday evenings, focuses on East African music and features audience-driven segments. A 'Super Fan Saturday' segment includes dares that sometimes require polite declines, according to Nyaga.
Nyaga's media career began in 2004 when he won national drama competitions at Kanyakine Boys Boarding Primary School. His participation in these events continued through 2005, with his drama teacher Liz Mutembei helping him overcome stage fright. After studying Public Relations at the University of Nairobi, he transitioned to acting, appearing in the 2012 series 'Muheshimiwa.'
A breakthrough came in 2014 with his role in 'Mama Duka,' which won Best Indigenous Movie/ Series at the 2014 AMVCAs. Recent projects include a lead role in Basco Paints' 'Make It Yours' campaign and participation in IBM's global campaign. Nyaga also served as an emcee in Kisumu, adapting his performance to include Swahili and English to engage diverse audiences.
Despite initial family skepticism about media careers, Nyaga credits mentorship from friend Nick Mutuma and acknowledges his growth from a 'go-getter' to a multifaceted entertainer. 'The Captain is a character. Manasseh is a person who has weaknesses and strengths and he’s trying to be the best he can,' he reflected.
