Colleagues at Citizen TV gathered on Wednesday to bid farewell to veteran news anchor Yvonne Okwara, who is leaving the media industry after a 20-year career. Okwara spent 8.5 years at Citizen TV, where she served as senior news anchor and business news editor. She anchored the Tuesday night edition of ‘Tonight’ and steered News Gang every Thursday night. Her departure has created a void at the newsroom, with colleagues expressing their admiration for her professionalism and warmth.
Okwara's career in journalism has been marked by her poise, integrity, and commitment to holding power to account. She is widely regarded as a yardstick for good journalism, known for her eloquence, intellect, and authority. Citizen TV Managing Editor Pamela Asigi praised Okwara, saying she has a unique combination of political and business acumen. Okwara's impact on the industry has been significant, and her legacy will be remembered by her colleagues and peers.
During the farewell gathering, colleagues and reporters at Citizen TV shared their appreciation for Okwara's leadership and mentorship. Reporter Mary Muoki expressed her respect for Okwara, while anchor Mashirima Kapombe noted that her departure will be deeply felt. Jimmy Mbogo, another reporter, thanked Okwara for her guidance and support throughout her career. The gathering was filled with laughter and embraces, but also a sense of loss.
Okwara reflected on her time at Citizen TV, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of her colleagues. She emphasized the importance of reading and sharing their stories with seriousness and respect. Her humility and warmth have made her a beloved figure at the newsroom, and her departure will be felt by all who worked with her.
As Okwara begins a new chapter in her career, she has expressed her confidence in the abilities of her colleagues. She encouraged them to shine and offered her support, saying they know she is just a phone call away. Her departure marks the end of an era at Citizen TV, and her colleagues will miss her leadership and presence.
Okwara's new role was announced recently, as she joined Shuga Global as the head of investments and partnerships. Her experience and expertise will undoubtedly be valuable in her new position. The media industry is taking note of her departure, and her legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of journalists.
The farewell gathering at Citizen TV was a testament to Okwara's impact on the industry and her colleagues. Her dedication, professionalism, and warmth have left a lasting impression, and her departure will be felt for years to come. As she begins her new journey, Okwara will always be remembered for her remarkable career and her contributions to the media industry.
Key points
- Yvonne Okwara is leaving Citizen TV after 8.5 years to join Shuga Global as the head of investments and partnerships.
