The passing of veteran journalist and media personality Rita Tinina on March 17th due to severe pneumonia deeply saddened and rocked the entire nation.
Kenyans from all walks have expressed their condolences and honoured the late journalist for her remarkable character, strength, dignity, and charisma.
Rita Tinina’s requiem mass took place on Monday, March 25th, at the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi. Tinina’s young daughter, Mia Malaikah, was among those present at her mother’s service, accompanied by Tinina’s partner, Robert Nagila.
Prominent figures from the media industry, and dignitaries from various fields, including politicians, came together to mourn the loss of the well-respected journalist.
The 8-year-old young girl was clad in a beautiful pearl white dress. She looked deep in thought during the mass as she gazed at her mum’s casket and picture at the front during the proceedings.
“Mia Malaika, the 8-year-old daughter of the late journalist Rita Tinina. May the Lord see her through,” read a caption by Facebook channel Lemiso Media House.
Kenyans observed the beautiful girl, who appeared solemn yet brave, and maintained her composure throughout the service despite the evident heaviness of the moment.
Netizens flooded the comment section with words of comfort and encouragement for the young child, recognizing the emotional turmoil she must be experiencing at this difficult time.
Here are some of the comments:
Moses Gitonga Ntiritu: May God almighty make her shine even more than the mother. May the angels that watched over the mother watch over her and give her success doublefold in her life in Jesus name.
Irene John: It’s painful indeed, May our God watch over this angel and encourage her. I feel her pain
Anthony Chirchir: I like the courage in her…May God comfort this innocent soul.
Hakal Shazam Sharon: Ohh No. The only person who is feeling the death of this death…ohhh baby, it is well. God’s got you.
All you need to know about acute pneumonia disease Rita Tinina succumbed to
Elsewhere, Rita Tinina’s partner Robert Nagila shared a heartfelt tribute for the journalist and the legacy she has left behind.
“What is remarkable is Rita established her legacy, just shy of her 46th birthday,” he said.
Nagila shared with the mourners at the mass of his first encounter with Rita Tinina. He said that her passing was a void that could never be filled.
“When our paths first crossed, your beauty, laughter and warm heart touched me. But you are also the most stubborn person I ever met…I shall miss you dearly, Mama Mia.”
“Last Sunday, your phone stopped ringing. Your passing has left a void that cannot be filled. But I am comforted with the fact that the memories of time spent will live on with us,” he continued.
Nagila looked at Tinina’s daughter, Mia Malaikah, and expressed pride in having known her mother. He conveyed that she was Tinina’s best friend and that the late journalist had done everything possible to ensure Mia had a bright future.
“My dearest Mia, your mother loved you more than anything else in this world. You were her best friend, her confidant and every single thing she did was centred around you and your future,” he said.
“Know this, you are loved so much and there is nothing we would not do for you.”