Yvonne Okwara Leaves Citizen TV After Eight Years, Takes New Role at Shuga Global

Veteran Kenyan journalist Yvonne Okwara has announced her departure from Citizen TV, bringing her eight-year tenure at the Royal Media Services-owned station to an end. Her exit also marks a major transition after nearly two decades in journalism, during which she became known for her political interviews, current affairs coverage and commitment to public accountability.

Okwara announced her departure on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, during her final appearance on The Explainer, a weekly current affairs program broadcast on Citizen TV. In her farewell message, she reflected on her career and expressed gratitude for the opportunities she had received while working in Kenyan media.

She recalled entering the profession as a young university graduate with a degree in microbiology and a strong interest in journalism. Despite the years she has spent reporting and interviewing influential figures, she said her optimism and belief in the country remained unchanged.

Yvonne Okwara Reflects on Her Journalism Career

Throughout her career, Okwara interviewed presidents, government officials, business leaders, international figures, activists and ordinary citizens. Her work placed her at the center of important national conversations involving politics, governance and economic development.

She also became a familiar face to viewers through prime-time news broadcasts and political analysis programs. Alongside other journalists, including Royal Media Services Editorial Director Linus Kaikai, she participated in News Gang, a program examining major political developments and national issues.

Before joining Citizen TV in May 2018, Okwara worked at several media organizations, including Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Nation Media Group, QFM, QTV and Kenya Television Network.

Her experience also extended beyond daily news reporting. She moderated Kenya’s presidential debates and participated in international discussions featuring prominent figures, including Melinda French Gates, former US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew and former World Bank President Jim Yong Kim.

In her farewell remarks, Okwara emphasized the importance of asking difficult questions, holding leaders accountable and giving ordinary people a voice. She encouraged journalists and Kenyans to continue demanding better leadership and believing in the country’s future.

Okwara Takes Leadership Role at Shuga Global

Okwara’s departure from Citizen TV is accompanied by a move into a new professional chapter. According to reports published on October 28, she has joined Shuga Global as its Head of Investments and Partnerships.

Shuga Global is an international nonprofit organization that uses storytelling, media and community outreach to engage young people and promote informed choices around emotional well-being, gender equality and social issues.

The organization welcomed Okwara to the position, highlighting its interest in expanding its reach and developing opportunities beyond traditional grant funding.

Her move represents a shift from frontline journalism toward leadership, partnerships and investment development within the nonprofit sector.

Leaders Pay Tribute to the Veteran Journalist

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was among those who publicly wished Okwara well following her announcement. He recalled that she had given him his first television appearance more than 13 years ago and praised her contribution to journalism.

Okwara’s departure closes an important chapter at Citizen TV, but her new role offers an opportunity to apply her communication experience and public engagement skills in a different setting.

As she begins this next phase, her farewell message leaves viewers with a lasting reminder of the role journalism can play in encouraging accountability and shaping national conversations.