The passing of esteemed TV journalist Rita Tinina has plunged Kenya into mourning as news of her sudden demise in her Nairobi residence on Sunday.
Colleagues at NTV channel were taken aback when Tinina didn’t arrive for her scheduled duty on Sunday, prompting them to conduct a wellness check at her home where she was discovered unconscious.
Authorities revealed that no signs of physical harm were evident on her body, according to a police report.
Tinina’s sister informed law enforcement that the journalist had been battling epilepsy and had endured a severe fever over the past week.
Renowned for her enthralling news features, Tinina’s work had often captivated the nation, leaving an indelible mark on the media landscape.
Kenyans on social media say they will miss her skilful scriptwriting and wordplay, while her colleagues have mourned her as a hardworking and reliable journalist.
“Her passing leaves a void in the industry, yet her legacy of storytelling and integrity will endure,” opposition leader Raila Odinga posted on X.
Information Minister Eliud Owalo described Tinina’s contributions to journalism as “invaluable”.