Yvonne Okwara Exits Citizen TV After 8 Years, Announces New Chapter

Yvonne Okwara Exits Citizen TV After 8 Years, Announces New Chapter

Veteran Kenyan journalist Yvonne Okwara has announced her departure from Citizen TV and Royal Media Services (RMS) after eight and a half years at the media house, bringing a major chapter of her broadcasting career to a close.

Okwara made the announcement on Tuesday, October 27, during her final appearance on The Explainer, the current affairs programme aired every Tuesday at 9pm.

In her farewell message, the experienced journalist revealed that she was also stepping away from journalism after nearly two decades in the media industry.

She thanked viewers and colleagues for their support throughout her career, describing her departure as the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

“When I walked through these doors, I was young, fresh from university. I still feel the same way. But allow me tonight a little indulgence, because this is my final final word. The very place I started my career in journalism is the same place I get to wrap things up,” Okwara stated.

Her announcement prompted an outpouring of tributes from viewers, politicians and colleagues who have followed her work in political reporting, interviews and current affairs.

Okwara Hints at New Chapter Beyond Journalism

Although she did not disclose her next move, Okwara indicated that leaving the newsroom did not mean she was abandoning her ambitions.

She encouraged Kenyans to remain engaged in public affairs, question those in authority and continue pushing for accountability.

“So, I am not done building. I’m simply moving to build something else. And to you, I urge: keep asking the right questions, keep demanding better, keep holding power to account, and keep believing that this country is worth fighting for,” she added.

Her remarks reflected the themes that have defined much of her public work, particularly scrutiny of political leadership, governance and issues affecting ordinary Kenyans.

Okwara has not announced when or where she will begin her next undertaking.

From KTN News to Citizen TV

Okwara joined Citizen TV in May 2018 after working at KTN News. During her time at RMS, she became a familiar face on prime-time bulletins and current affairs programmes.

She conducted interviews with senior political figures, government officials and international leaders, while covering major political and economic developments in Kenya.

Her work included interviewing President William Ruto and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, among other prominent figures.

She also moderated the presidential debate during the 2022 election period, further establishing her profile in political journalism.

Beyond The Explainer, Okwara was part of the team behind News Gang, a weekly programme that examined political developments and major national issues.

The programme featured journalists from the station, including RMS Editorial Director Linus Kaikai, and offered analysis of current affairs and government decisions.

Okwara’s Career Spanned Several Media Houses

Before joining Citizen TV, Okwara worked at several media organisations, including the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), Nation Media Group and QFM.

Her career across different platforms helped establish her as one of Kenya’s recognised broadcast journalists.

Over the years, she became known for direct questioning, detailed political analysis and interviews examining public policy and leadership.

Her exit from Citizen TV marks a significant transition for viewers who have followed her work on the station’s flagship news and current affairs programmes.

Edwin Sifuna Leads Farewell Messages

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was among the leaders who publicly wished Okwara well as she prepared to leave the media industry.

Sifuna recalled appearing on television through an interview with the journalist more than 13 years ago and praised her contribution to journalism.

“Wishing you all the best in your next chapter. I really loved our little talks on The Explainer. You are one of the best to ever do it. I won’t forget that you gave me my first appearance on TV over 13 years ago. Forever grateful, God bless!” Sifuna said.

Okwara’s departure closes a nearly 20-year career in journalism, during which she reported on national affairs, questioned political leaders and helped audiences examine key issues shaping Kenya.

While her next move remains undisclosed, her farewell message signals that she intends to pursue new opportunities beyond the newsroom.

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Yvonne Okwara Exits Citizen TV After 8 Years, Announces New Chapter