Rita Tinina: An irreplaceable loss to the media fraternity

She has left behind a profound legacy that deeply resonated with her audience.

In Summary
  • Recently, Tinina was a senior reporter at Nation Media Group's NTV having re-joined the group in October 2023.
  • Before then, she was a senior reporter at Standard Group's KTN where she started worked in 2021.
NTV journalist Rita Tinina
NTV journalist Rita Tinina
Image: HANDOUT

In a sombre moment, the media fraternity and Kenyans alike are taking in the devastating news of the death of veteran journalist Rita Tinina.

The news of Tinina's death broke Sunday afternoon after police found her body in her Kileleshwa home in Nairobi earlier in the day.

She has left behind a profound legacy that deeply resonated with her audience.

Recently, Tinina was a senior reporter at Nation Media Group's NTV having re-joined the Group in October 2023.

Before then, she was a senior reporter at Standard Group's KTN where she started working in 2021.

She had moved to KTN from NMG.

She held a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Media Studies from the University of Nairobi.

Her notable work includes the coverage of then Deputy President William Ruto's trial at the Hague 10 years ago, the government Score Card, the truck explosion at the Karai area in Naivasha and conservation stories including holding an interview on saving elephants.

She also brought to Kenyans the 'Life and Times of Mama Lucy Kibaki', a biography of the former First Lady.

Tinina was a mother of one.

Following her death, Kenyans have taken to X mourning her.

Former NTV journalist Linda Oguttu said, "I am who I am because I stood on her shoulders while at NTV. My T9. Go well my darling. Rita Tinina, the hand that held mine and never let go. I am broken....Rest mami".

"Really sad news on Rita Tinina’s passing. My deepest condolences to her family. Rest well Rita," Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.

Nairobi Women Rep Esther Passaris said, "Saddened to hear about the passing of Rita Tinina, whose voice resonated across Kenya. Her professionalism and dedication to journalism will be greatly missed. Sending my deepest condolences to her family, her friends, and the media fraternity".

"She used to deliver news in her own style while working at NTV. go well Rita Tinina," an X user wrote.

"Safiri salama Rita Tinina. In journalism, you remain a great journalist. Despite representing major stations while I worked for smaller media houses, your humility stood out as we covered events together. I remember how you pushed me to apply for a role at The Voice of America. You were a super storyteller, and that made you stand out as a great journalist. Your stories will never fade. They are only a @YouTube away. Journalists never DIE; they merely SIGN OFF. Rita Tinina, SALUTE!" #RIPRitaTinina," Dennis Itumbi stated.

"Gone too soon….. Rita Tinina a beacon of journalistic excellence, unwavering dedication and passion for storytelling left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Her exemplary duty to inform, educate, and inspire has touched countless lives, leaving a legacy that will forever be cherished. God, please comfort the family and friends. May her soul rest in eternal peace," Isaac Kalua said.

Rest in Eternal Peace, Rita.

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