Digital Strategist Dennis Itumbi has mourned NTV journalist Rita Tinina in an emotional tribute.
In his message, Itumbi mourned the departed journalist as a humble journalist who pushed him to chase after his dreams.
Reminiscing the old times, Itumbi said Tinina's exemplary storytelling skills made her stand out as a great journalist whose stories will never fade.
"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" Itumbi wrote.
Tributes pour in for Tinina
A section of current and former journalists including State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed also mourned the departed journalist, many remembered her for her unwavering commitment to the job and her supportive nature towards them as they ventured into the job.
In his tribute, Hussein remembered Tinina as a gracious individual who helped him out during his stint at Citizen TV.
"Rita bailed me out once during my time at Citizen TV, helping me file a story when our equipment failed at an EAC Heads of State Summit in Arusha during Kibaki’s presidency. It was my first interaction with her, as she was already a household name in media, while I was a rookie at the time. Nonetheless, she displayed grace then, as she always has. My condolences to friends and family," he wrote.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris also mourned the departed journalist as a voice that resonated across the country.
"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 said.
Rita dies
The vibrant journalist was found dead at her home in Kileleshwa, Nairobi on Sunday, March 17, 2024.
At the time of publishing this article, the family was yet to reveal details of what led to her unexpected death.
Multiple reports indicated that the journalist was found dead moments after she failed to report to work.
At the time, her managers visited her at her house to establish why she failed to report only to find her body.
The journalist previously worked at Standard Group's KTN before moving to Nation Media Group's NTV, where she served as an editor from October 2023 until her demise.
