Smriti Vidyarthi Departs NTV After 16 Years: Reflecting on Her Remarkable Career

After 16 Years, Smriti Vidyarthi Bids Farewell to NTV

After more than 16 years as one of Kenya’s most esteemed broadcast journalists, Smriti Vidyarthi has officially parted ways with NTV Kenya, marking the conclusion of a distinguished tenure at Nation Media Group (NMG).

Announcing her departure on social media, Smriti expressed her gratitude to viewers for their trust and support, inviting them to watch her final 9 PM bulletin.

“Sixteen and a half years of service to the Nation Media Group and the nation at large. Thank you for trusting me. For now, tune in tonight at 9 PM for my last bulletin on NTV,” she wrote.

An Outpouring of Reactions

Smriti’s announcement sparked a wave of reactions from colleagues, fans, and industry insiders, all acknowledging her professionalism, dedication, and impact on Kenyan journalism.

Many Kenyans took to social media to wish her success in her future endeavors. @clichy_malooks marveled at her lengthy tenure, writing, “16 years. Damn!” while @fabmikel expressed curiosity about her next step, simply asking, “Next stop?”

Fellow journalists and colleagues celebrated her contribution to the industry. @Ramah_Nyang wished her well in her next chapter, while @MuthumaGabriel reflected on the privilege of participating in her interviews.

Media personality @xtiandela hailed her as the G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time), and @manhattan254 praised her work ethic, saying, “If professionalism could be summed up in one sentence… for that, I owe you a follow. 🍻 to greater heights, mademoiselle.”

Fans also reminisced about her signature segment, The Memo, known for its concise and insightful news summaries. @mbugua605 paid tribute, saying, “The Memo always delivers precise and impactful summaries.”

What’s Next for Smriti?

While Smriti has yet to reveal her next career move, speculation is rife about whether she will remain in journalism, transition to advocacy, international media, or explore a new field altogether.

Some fans humorously suggested unexpected career shifts. @EMachariaK joked, “Smriti is joining me in farming, kwani hamjui? Anyway, all the best in your endeavors.” Others, like @Dbx_254, speculated that recent changes at Nation Media Group may have influenced her departure.

A Legacy of Excellence

Smriti Vidyarthi has been a cornerstone of Kenyan journalism since joining NTV in 2007, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in prime-time news.

An accomplished news anchor, interviewer, and documentary producer, she is known for her ability to present complex stories with clarity and depth. Over the years, she has covered major political, economic, and social developments while championing environmental journalism and wildlife conservation.

Her impactful storytelling earned her a loyal following, with many appreciating her coverage of wildlife and tourism-related issues. @ROMANCFC3 acknowledged this, writing, “You educated many on wildlife matters. You’re a GOAT in my book.”

Beyond journalism, Smriti has been a strong advocate for human rights, gender equality, and social justice, using her platform to amplify marginalized voices. @kittsannemarie commented, “This is such a huge loss… I have loved your news pieces. Thank you for standing up for others. Wishing you the best!”

Her ability to connect with audiences was evident, as noted by @vlad_kruschev, who wrote, “You are the reason I watched TV.”

As Smriti embarks on a new chapter, her impact on Kenyan journalism remains undeniable, and her next move is eagerly anticipated.