The somber air hung heavy over Noosupeni Farm Olokirikirai in Narok County on March 27, 2024, as family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries gathered to bid farewell to Rita Tinina, a cherished figure in Kenyan media.
Just a day shy of her 46th birthday, Rita’s was pronounced dead after severe pneumonia at her Nairobi residence.
Among the mourners were Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina and his Kitui County counterpart, who stood in solidarity with Rita’s loved ones.
In his condolence message, Senator Ledama promised that he would pay for the education of the late Rita Tinina’s daughter since Rita’s parents were also gone, and promised to stand by Robert Nagila who was the partner to Rita.
He spoke of shared grief and the importance of unity, praising the media fraternity for their unwavering support during this trying time.
”Today we’ve heard many things about what Rita did. To the community, strengthen your hearts. To Malkia, we have your back. We will help you. Many people speak but Robert, we will be there to support the young girl. I will personally ensure I pay for her secondary school education because Rita’s parents went ahead of her,” said Senator Ledama.
Former journalist and now Senator Erick Wambua led the congregation in a poignant rendition of the hymn “It Is Well,” offering solace and reassurance amidst the sorrow.
“Poleni sana to the family of Rita Tinina. That was a special dedication to the family of Rita. It shall be well. She has gone to rest but I want to assure you that the fullness of God’s timing, He shall make everything beautiful for each one of you.”
”To my colleagues in the media fraternity, I am a journalist of good and long-standing. I’ve worked with Rita at NMG and the media fraternity has suffered a blow. Poleni sana. I come here to offer my personal condolences, to my family and of the great people of Ukambanni and Dr Stephen Kalonzo. He’s said pole to the family and I know he is organizing a visit to the family,” added Senator Wambua.
