Smriti Vidyarthi Leaves NTV after 16 Years: A Look Back at Her Illustrious Career

After more than 16 years as one of Kenya’s most respected broadcast journalists, Smriti Vidyarthi has bid farewell to NTV Kenya, marking the end of an illustrious career at Nation Media Group (NMG).

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

"Sixteen and a half years of service to the Nation Media Group and to 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.

The media industry has seen a lot of movement lately, with journalists and news anchors switching from one media house to another.

One of the well-known journalists making a move is Eric Latiff, a popular radio and TV host. He recently joined Nation Media Group after leaving Standard Media Group.

Latiff had been working at Spice FM, a radio station under Standard Group, for about four and a half years before announcing his departure.

Meanwhile, journalist Janet Mbugua made a comeback to television after an eight-year break. She joined NTV, and her return was confirmed by Simaloi Dajom, the Head of Broadcasting at Nation Media Group. Dajom praised Mbugua’s ability to engage audiences, highlighting her strong skills as a presenter.

Another big change in the media industry is the departure of Ken Mijungu from KTN, where he worked for four years. He has now joined TV47, which is owned by Cape Media Limited.

Smriti's announcement sparked an outpouring of reactions from colleagues, fans, and industry insiders, all celebrating her dedication, professionalism, and impact on Kenyan journalism.

A Wave of Reactions

Many Kenyans took to social media to wish Smriti success in her next endeavor. @clichy_malooks was in awe of her long tenure, stating:

"16 years. Damn!"

Others, like @fabmikel, were curious about her next move, asking simply:

"Next stop?"

Smriti’s colleagues and fellow journalists acknowledged her commitment to excellence, with @Ramah_Nyang wishing her the best in her next chapter, and @MuthumaGabriel recalling the honor of participating in her interviews.

@xtiandela summed up what many felt about her contribution to the industry, calling her the G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time). Meanwhile, @manhattan254 praised her professionalism, saying:

"If professionalism can be put in one sentence... for that, I owe you a follow. ? to greater heights, mademoiselle."

Some fans also reminisced about her signature segment, The Memo, known for its insightful and concise summaries of current affairs. @mbugua605 wrote:

"Long live...#TheMemo always does the summary, precise as it should be."

Smriti Vidyarthi: A Profile of Excellence

As for Smriti Vidyarthi, she began her TV career at K24 in January 2008 as a news anchor.

Later that year, in September, she moved to NTV, where she spent 16 years hosting and anchoring several news programs, including NTV This Morning, NTV Tonight, and NTV Wild Talk—a show focused on wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.

Her work on NTV Wild Talk played a major role in educating people about the importance of protecting wildlife and the environment.

In 2013, Smriti was recognized for her outstanding journalism when she won the Media Council’s Annual Journalism Excellence Award in the Television News Bulletin category. This award celebrated her dedication and impact in the media industry.

What’s Next for Smriti?

While Smriti has not revealed her next career move, speculation is rife about whether she will continue in journalism, venture into advocacy, international media, or a completely new field.

Some fans, like @EMachariaK, humorously suggested she might be heading into farming, writing:

"Smriti is joining me in farming, kwani hamjui? Anyway, all the best in your endeavors."

Others, like @Dbx_254, speculated about recent changes at Nation Media Group, suggesting that new talent arriving at the station may have influenced her departure.

Regardless of what’s next, her fans are hopeful she will continue to make an impact.