Veteran Kenyan journalist Yvonne Okwara has announced her exit from Citizen TV, bringing an end to an eight-year stint at the Royal Media Services-owned broadcaster.


Okwara's departure was reported by Nairobi Leo on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, marking a major development in Kenya's television news industry.

The celebrated journalist joined Citizen TV in May 2018 after leaving KTN News, where she had spent more than five years building her profile as a news anchor and senior editorial figure.

During her time at Citizen TV, Okwara became one of the station's most recognisable faces, presenting major news bulletins and hosting programmes that examined politics, governance, business and other issues affecting Kenyans.

Her exit marks the end of a chapter that saw her establish herself as a prominent voice in public affairs journalism.

Yvonne Okwara's Journey to Citizen TV

Okwara's career in broadcasting began long before she became a familiar face on prime-time television.

She studied Microbiology at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology before pursuing opportunities in the media industry.

Her early career included work in radio production and content development, experiences that helped shape her transition into television journalism.

She worked with Nation Media Group, including QFM and NTV, before joining KTN News in November 2012.

At KTN, Okwara became known for her interviewing style and involvement in current affairs programming. Her responsibilities included news presentation, research, planning and editorial work.

Her departure from KTN in 2018 was another major development in Kenya's competitive television industry, as experienced journalists moved between the country's leading media houses.

She subsequently joined Citizen TV, returning to Royal Media Services, where she had previously worked in radio.

The Explainer and News Gang Legacy

At Citizen TV, Okwara took on a prominent role in current affairs programming, including News Gang and The Explainer.

The programmes provided platforms for examining major national developments, questioning public officials and explaining the implications of political and economic decisions.

In May 2023, Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai praised Okwara's record in accountability journalism when announcing changes to the station's prime-time programming.

"Yvonne Okwara is a very strong accountability-driven journalist with a strong record in public interest reporting and she is best placed to execute the Explainer," Kaikai said.

He explained the thinking behind the programme, adding: "The Explainer comes in because we acknowledge that our audiences are demanding to understand the meaning behind events. They want to understand the implications of the news events that we cover and how they affect their livelihoods."

The comments highlighted the editorial role Okwara had been given at the station: going beyond reporting what happened to examining why it mattered to the public.

Her work also extended to business coverage and editorial planning, broadening her responsibilities beyond news presentation.

Yvonne Okwara Reflects on Her Seven Years at Citizen TV

In May 2025, Okwara marked seven years at Citizen TV and 19 years in the media industry.

Reflecting on her journey in a statement shared on LinkedIn, she described the broadcaster as an important part of her professional development.

"19 Years in Media. 7 Years at Citizen TV. A journey of growth, grit, grace, and gratitude," she wrote.

She continued: "This May marks a significant milestone in my life and career. It's been 19 years since I first stepped into a newsroom, full of curiosity and questions."

Looking back at her development from a behind-the-scenes content producer to a prime-time news anchor, Okwara said each stage of her career had taught her valuable lessons.

"From my early days at QFM producing content behind the scenes, to directing political talk shows and eventually anchoring prime-time news, each chapter has taught me something different—about the power of storytelling, the importance of integrity, and the impact of voice and authenticity," she said.

She also reflected on the opportunities she had received at Citizen TV, particularly through its current affairs programmes.

"At Citizen TV, I've been privileged to lead and grow, to question power, and to create space for deeper understanding through shows like The Explainer and News Gang," she said.

Her remarks offered an insight into how she viewed her contribution to the station and the broader role of journalism in public life.

A Career Beyond Television

Okwara's influence has extended beyond the newsroom.

She has moderated high-profile local and international discussions involving prominent figures in business, governance and global development.

In 2017, she moderated Kenya's presidential debate, further establishing her profile as an experienced interviewer and discussion moderator.

She has also served in leadership and advisory roles outside daily broadcasting, including her involvement with Enactus Kenya and Africa Uncensored.

These responsibilities have placed her at the intersection of journalism, leadership and public engagement.

Her career illustrates the path of a journalist who moved from content production and radio into senior television presentation and editorial responsibilities.

What Happens After Citizen TV?

Okwara's departure raises questions about her next professional move and who will take over her responsibilities at Citizen TV.

However, the announcement reported on October 27 did not establish the details of her next role, and no confirmed information about a new employer was available in the report reviewed.

It would therefore be premature to speculate about whether she intends to join another broadcaster, pursue independent media work or focus on other professional interests.

Citizen TV's plans for her former roles will also be of interest to viewers who have followed her work on prime-time news and current affairs programmes.

For now, her departure marks the end of an eight-year chapter at one of Kenya's most prominent television stations.

As the media industry awaits further details about her next move, Okwara leaves behind a career at Citizen TV defined by political interviews, public-interest reporting and programmes designed to help audiences understand the issues shaping the country.

The Daily Whistle will update this story as more details about her departure and next move emerge.