“One of the Best to Ever Do It;” Sifuna Hails Yvonne Okwara After Her Sign Off From Citizen TV

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has joined Kenyans in paying tribute to veteran Citizen TV journalist Yvonne Okwara after she signed off from her segment on the station’s flagship programme, The Explainer.

In a post on X shortly after Citizen TV Kenya shared a clip announcing her sign-off, Sifuna wished the broadcaster the best in her “next chapter.” He said he had loved their “little talks” on The Explainer and described her as “one of the best to ever do it.”

The senator also made a personal revelation. Sifuna said Okwara gave him his first appearance on television more than 13 years ago, a gesture he says he will never forget. “Forever grateful, God bless,” he concluded.

Citizen TV Kenya had earlier posted a video titled “Yvonne Okwara Signs Off,” showing the anchor in her “Yvonne’s Take” segment, a regular feature of The Explainer. The broadcast aired on a night when the programme’s ticker was also carrying international news, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva winning a fourth term in office.

The message from Sifuna reflects the close working relationship that often develops between journalists and the political figures they interview.

Okwara’s interview style, which many viewers describe as sharp, composed and fair, has seen her host some of the country’s most prominent leaders over the years. For many politicians, a sit-down with her was a key moment in reaching the public.

Sifuna’s story also speaks to the influence of television in shaping political careers in Kenya. Before becoming one of the most recognisable voices in the Senate, he was a young politician looking for a platform, and a TV invitation more than a decade ago proved to be a meaningful early step. His public gratitude shows how much such opportunities can matter to those starting out.

The post drew attention online as Kenyans reacted to news of Okwara’s exit from the programme. Citizen TV has not been quoted in this report on the reasons for her departure or on what her next move will be, and neither has she. The phrase “next chapter” in Sifuna’s message suggests she is moving on to new things, but details have yet to be made public.

What is clear is the goodwill that has followed her. From colleagues to politicians to viewers, the tributes point to a career that left a mark on Kenyan broadcast journalism. As the public waits to learn what she will do next, her sign-off has become one of the most talked-about media moments of the day.

Link; https://x.com/edwinsifuna/status/2115291320457867417?a=1bnzKMUjk9GiQvteg2k&s=19

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