Journalist Rita Tinina’s funeral arrangements have been finalized, with her burial scheduled for Wednesday, March 27th, in Narok. The service and burial will take place at their family home, Noosupeni Farm Olokirikirai, Narok, starting at 10:00 am. Prior to the funeral, there will be funeral arrangement meetings at All Saint’s Cathedral, beginning from 5:30 pm. Additionally, a requiem mass will be held at Holy Family Basilica on March 25th, starting at 10:00 am.
According to a death and funeral announcement seen by The Star, the cortege will depart from Umash Funeral Home Nakuru on March 27th, 2024, at 7:00 am. Rita Tinina, beloved daughter of the late Dominic and the late Mary Yiapan, will be laid to rest. She was the mother of Mia Malaikah and the loving partner of Robert Nagila. The announcement also noted her cherished relationships as a sister-in-law of Timothy, Roshen, Belmont, Agnes, and Macharia, and as a beloved sister of Helen, Irene, Justine, Jedidah, Keen, and Claudia.
An autopsy conducted on March 19th revealed that Tinina passed away due to severe pneumonia. Family spokesperson Timothy Njaga expressed satisfaction with the autopsy results, stating that it was conducted by Dr. Ndegwa and the family pathologist. Government pathologist Peter Ndegwa performed the autopsy in the presence of the family pathologist, with notable journalists such as Kenya Editors Guild president Zubeida Kananu and Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association chairman Duncan Khaemba among those present.
Tinina was discovered deceased on Sunday, March 17th, in her Kileleshwa residence by her house girl. Following the news of her passing, condolences poured in from various leaders and journalists. President William Ruto extended his condolences to Tinina’s family, friends, and colleagues, praising her as a pioneer and trailblazer in television journalism in the country.
The Kenya Editors’ Guild highlighted Tinina’s significant contributions to the media industry, acknowledging her excellence as both a TV reporter and editor. Until her passing, Tinina served as an Output Producer at NTV, showcasing her talent and dedication in the field. Tinina, a senior reporter at Nation Media Group’s NTV, had rejoined the Group in October 2023.