RMS staff bid farewell to exiting Citizen TV news anchor Yvonne Okwara

After two decades in the media industry, including eight and a half remarkable years at Citizen TV, celebrated journalist Yvonne Okwara is signing off.

As she closes a distinguished chapter in her career, colleagues on Wednesday gathered to celebrate her impact, honour her contribution to the newsroom and reflect on the legacy she leaves behind.

For about 20 years now, Okwara has distinguished herself through her poise, her integrity and an unwavering commitment to holding power to account.

But now, after a monumental career, she is bidding farewell to the newsroom.

In the journalism industry, Okwara is often the yardstick against which good journalism is measured for her eloquence, intellect, and unmistakable authority.

“She’s got a political mind, and she’s also got a business mind, which I think are a very good combination in this business,” Citizen TV Managing Editor Pamela Asigi said during the celebration.

Citizen TV reporter Mary Muoki added: “I must say that I have tremendous, tremendous respect for you.”

As the newsroom came together to celebrate her remarkable journey, there was laughter, and there were embraces, but there also hung in the air an unmistakable sense of loss.

“So this is a huge, huge blow as you leave. It will be very lonely in here,” Citizen TV news anchor Mashirima Kapombe said.

Citizen TV reporter Jimmy Mbogo added: “This is going to hit harder than most have, but for me personally I want to say thank you.”

At Citizen TV, Yvonne served as senior news anchor and business news editor.

She anchored the Tuesday night edition of ‘Tonight’ and also steered News Gang every Thursday night. But beyond her formidable presence on television, she is a woman adored for her warmth and humility.

“I just read what you guys have done, and I’ve been in the field, so I know it is not easy, and I know the work that all of you do is absolutely outstanding, and I’ve always felt such a huge responsibility to read all of your stories with the seriousness it deserves because it is the fruit of your labour,” Okwara noted.

Yvonne Okwara’s departure creates a deeply felt void at Citizen TV. She leaves with the admiration of her colleagues, the respect of the industry and the goodwill of those who have worked with her over the years.

“My babies, please, please shine, I know you will, and you know I am a phone call away,” she said.