Smriti Vidyarthi Exits NTV After 16 Years

Long-serving NTV journalist Smriti Vidyarthi has left Nation Media Group after 16 years. 

In what was rare for the strong media voice, she could barely hold back tears as colleagues said goodbye during her last bulletin on Monday night.

In a statement on her social media, she expressed gratitude to viewers and the organisation, stating, “Sixteen and a half years of service to the Nation Media Group and to the nation at large. Thank you for trusting me.” 

Smriti served as a news editor, anchor, and host of NTV Wild Talk, a show that showcased the country’s vast wildlife. While on air last night, her NTV colleagues celebrated her as one of the brilliant and professional journalists. 

“She does her work and does it professionally without fear or favour,” said Joe Ageyo, the Editorial Director at Nation Media Group (NMG).

In the clip, fellow news anchor Zainab Ismail said, “I have learnt so much from her. She is kind, wonderful, and professional.” Business Editor and anchor Julians Amboko took to X to celebrate Smriti’s writing, “Undeniably one of the most professional scribes.” 

Smriti is one of the most recognisable faces on TV, with her partnership with Mark Masai making one of the best news duos in a very long time.

Her exit comes amid a raft of changes at NMG to fit the modern-day media landscape. It is unclear where she is headed after the exit.

Among those who have also exited NTV is Roselyne Obala, the political and assignment editor at NTV, who has resigned to join the Ministry of Interior as Communications Adviser and Director to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

Roselyne, while not often on air, was one of the brightest political editors and worked at Standard Group before transitioning to NTV. 

This comes as veteran broadcaster Eric Latiff returned to the Nation Media Group following his tenure at the Standard Media Group.  Latiff, who worked at Spice FM for nearly four and a half years, confirmed his departure from the Mombasa Road-based outlet before making the move.

Meanwhile, journalist Janet Mbugua has made a highly anticipated return to television, rejoining NTV after an eight-year hiatus. 

NMG’s Head of Broadcasting, Simaloi Dajom, announced her comeback and lauded Mbugua’s exceptional ability to connect with audiences.