GACHURI: I gained purpose, family, friends whilst at RMS

I want to tell you my journalism story. And while at it, I want to take special note of three key dates; 1st February 2006, 1st September 2007 and 2nd march 2023.

On 1st February 2006, my journalism life began at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) as an artist. That is equivalent to a trainee reporter at the national broadcaster. A 24-year-old, yearning to learn, unlearn and relearn, with a grand dream to excel in the world of journalism. My stint at KBC lasted exactly 560 days.

Then after a short break, I transitioned to the Royal Media Services on 1st September 2007. That was just 117 days to the General Election. For me, it was akin to baptism by fire. I was assigned to cover the fiercely contested ODM nominations in Nyanza region, alongside my brothers Charles Odhiambo, Steve Shitera and Peter Kihuyu.

Then we were back in the region for the 2007 general election. I vividly remember how post-election violence broke out. I remember the desperate calls we made to then Nyanza Provincial Police Officer Grace Kaindi.

The narrow escape in the dead of night from Kisumu to Nakuru via Cavakali and eventually back to Nairobi on 29th December 2007. That experience was defining. It taught me that journalism is for the brave. That bravery is not just against the physical dangers, but social, mental, moral and psychological dangers.

From 1st September 2007, it has been a great ride, with its fair share of ups and downs, tears, sweat and blood, great days and some not-so-good days, many star performances and a few poor shows that to me were more of experiences to learn, grow and improve.

Today, 2nd march 2023, I look back and can only smile and say, what a momentous journey. For 5,661 days I have been a member of the fantastic royal media family. Team excellence. Through it all, I can tell you what it is to be a journalist. This is a job that easily takes you through all four seasons of the climate; winter, summer, spring and autumn in one day.

This is one job that is often unpredictable. You can bid your family farewell in the morning hoping to see them in the evening only to see your spouse and children several days later. But it is a great experience.

This is also one profession that has as many definitions and perceptions as there are people. Today, those who celebrate and praise your journalistic work will tomorrow be hammer and tongs on you, accusing you of all manner of things, real and imagined.

But that hallowed opportunity to inform the masses, tell their stories, ask those in power the questions and keenly study, understand and interpret the law-making procedures will remain the highlight of my 17-year journey. I am grateful. I am deeply honoured.

Now, allow me turn to what I consider my second family; the royal media services. It is a beautiful story of 16 years. A story of professional identity. Churi wa citizen. Churi wa inooro. I have nothing but gratitude. During these 16 years, I have had the rare privilege and opportunity to work with the best brains. Most dedicated colleagues. Diligent souls. Vastly talented professionals on tv, radio and the digital platforms.

Some have proceeded to shine elsewhere; locally and internationally. Some are still around. I want to salute all. You are all part of me. When I joined Royal Media Services 5,661 days ago, I was a young man, who did not even have a family. While here, I got married, have children, the eldest now in high school. So, all my major milestones have happened while I was here. What more could I say?

I want to thank the RMS principals; Dr and Mrs. Macharia for their nurturing. The Managing Director Wachira Waruru, we call him coach here. Our paths crossed in 2006 at KBC. You epitomize excellence. To all the company directors; Fred, Latifah, Karanja, Mike, Carol, Rose. You are the best.

To my gang! You are a huge part of me. To Linus Kaikai, the encyclopedia of our team, ndugu yangu, thank you. Your insights are always refreshing! To Yvonne, my friend, sister and deskmate, keep doing great stuff. To Jamila Mohamed, the obvious recipient of what he calls bullying.

To you our viewers, listeners and readers; I am forever indebted to you. Your feedback has made me who I am. Thank you for tuning in every Thursday and consuming the content we produce every minute across the platforms.

Now, transition is here. The music stops at Royal Media Services for me. Allow me to step out and take up another national challenge. In the words of William Bridges, “it is when we are in transition that we are most completely alive.”

As fate would have it, I step out during the Lenten season. The period of self-introspection. To exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly as Henri Bergson aptly puts it. I won’t say goodbye, I prefer 'see you around'! Tuko hii town.