The burial ceremony of esteemed journalist Rita Tinina saw an outpouring of tributes and heartfelt condolences from prominent individuals, including President William Ruto.
Addressing mourners at Olokirikirai, Narok County on Wednesday, March 27, State House Press Secretary Emmanuel Talam representing President William Ruto, shared memories of his time with Tinina during their days at The Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC).
He confessed to have had a romantic interest in Rita back in the day.
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He described her as a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on those around her.
According to Talam, at the time when he first met Rita Tinina, he certainly knew that he had met his future wife.
"When Rita came to KIMC because we joined at the same time, the same class, I thought I had found a wife. She was so beautiful, she was brown, she was Maasai, I thought I had found a wife. When she noticed, she told me, 'Young man, take it slow, you will find another wife, tusome kwanza," Talam confessed.
Talam reflected on the impact she had on those who knew her.
"When I received the news of Rita Tinina's death, I asked the obvious questions all of us ask, why Rita? But anyway, as Rita's good friend would say, 'In everything, we give thanks to the Lord'. Let's thank God that he gave us Rita for those 40 years," he remarked.
Adding;
"Rita is simply a special person. I've gone through tributes said by friends and family, and no one has said anything negative about her. If you are not Rita's friend, then there is a problem with you. I have worked with Rita, and she is an amazing person. Rita was a very good journalist."
Rita Tinina's lover
Renowned journalist Robert Nagila delivered a heartfelt tribute to his late partner, Rita Tinina, highlighting the irreplaceable void she has left in his life.
During a solemn requiem mass held at the Holy Family Basilica on Monday, March 26, 2024, Nagila openly expressed his deep pain over the sudden loss of his beloved Rita.
Reflecting on the condolences he received, Nagila admitted that he was shattered by the tragedy, emphasizing that while broken things can be repaired, the loss of a loved one is permanent.
Despite his grief, Nagila expressed gratitude to his family and friends for their unwavering support during this challenging period.
He specifically mentioned former Westlands Member of Parliament, Fred Gumo, whom he likened to a father figure, for consistently reaching out with words of comfort and encouragement since learning of Rita's passing.
