President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday led Kenyans and the media fraternity in mourning the death of Royal Media Services (RMS) veteran journalist Robin Njogu who succumbed to Covid-19 complications. 

In his message, the President described Njogu as a progressive journalist whose contribution to radio and online journalism went a long way in transforming the country’s media and communication sector. 

“Robin was an excellent journalist who mentored many young people in the Fourth Estate.

We will forever cherish his skills and expertise in mass media, especially in radio where he has left a huge mark of excellence,” the President said.  

Uhuru remembered Njogu as an innovative, resourceful and open-minded journalist whose contribution as a past member of the State House press corps will be cherished forever.  

“Robin always had a midas touch in transforming media stations into great communication and entertainment outlets.

My interactions with Robin during his time in the press corps were always enriching. He was a trusted and very effective member of the team,” 

Devastating 

Deputy President William Ruto in his tribute described the death as ‘extremely devastating’ as it comes just days after he lost his mother. 

He remembered the journalist as a friendly, humble and good man, whose traits many of the journalists who passed through his hands would attest to and affirm as true. 

“He was a skilled, dedicated and professional radio journalist who edited and reported on issues openly, independently, and honestly,” Ruto said. 

Among leaders who mourned his death included Lands Cabinet Secretary Faridah Karoney and Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua. 

Information and Communications Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru said Njogu was a consummate journalist who contributed heavily to the development of radio news in the country. 

“I’m saddened to learn of the passing on of Robin Njogu and his mum. Sad loss for his young family, RMS and the media fraternity in the country. May God comfort  his family,” said Mucheru. 

Karoney while condoling with the family, in a statement said she was saddened by the demise of Njogu.  

Legacy and contribution

“I worked with Robin for many years managing radio news and this is a huge loss to the Royal Media Services family and the media fraternity. May God be gracious with his soul,” said Karoney. 

On his part, Mutua said that he was heartbroken to lose a friend and fellow journalist. 

“The other day when I visited him at the hospital, he was cheerful and getting better. He sent me this photo recently of the days when he used to attend my Govt. Spokesperson briefings as reporter,” said Mutua. 

Royal Media Services (RMS) Managing Director Wachira Waruru said Njogu’s death is a big loss not only to the organisation but also to the entire media fraternity in Kenya. 

Waruru said his legacy and contribution to the media industry, and radio journalism, in particular, will continue to impact many generations after him. 

“I received the news of Robin’s passing with shock and disbelief. Robin was a talented journalist and editor whose firm leadership ensured high-quality editorial products across all the RMS radio stations. Known for his gentle demeanor, Robin excelled at developing and keeping great talent within the stations and was always a step ahead of the competition,” he said. 

Waruru said Njogu exhibited a great understanding of the local news environment and the events that shape it. 

This development comes even as media players called for the need to have journalists listed as frontline workers and considered for the coronavirus vaccination after the demise of Njogu, who lost the battle to the virus on Monday night. 

Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary General Erick Oduor while acknowledging that Njogu had contracted the virus, he appealed to the government to consider incorporating journalists in the inoculation drive.