The death of Royal Media Services Managing Editor - Radio Division, Robin Njogu, has reverberated across the media fraternity, political class and among Kenyans who knew him
His name was known across the country but due to the nature of his radio job, many could not put a face to the name.
At the time of his death, he had risen to become the head of news for all 14 RMS radio stations.
According to RMS Group MD Wachira Waruru, Robin was among a pioneering group of journalists who transformed the delivery of radio news and diversified its content beyond the traditional bulletins and entertainment.
“At the weekly editorial meeting which I chair, Robin's well-thought-out perspectives always enriched our news agenda. He was a team player who never tired to reach across departments to meet the company's goals.
“His legacy and contribution to the media industry, and radio journalism, in particular, will continue to impact many generations after him,” Waruru eulogised in a statement.
His career started at Capital FM where he joined as a reporter, became a news editor before moving to Nation Media Group as head of radio and finally RMS.
Robin was at one time a member of the exclusive State House media corps.
Senior reporter Francis Gachuri who was a close friend eulogised Njogu as a very consultative person, despite being way more experienced and senior in the profession.
“He was my senior, friend and ally I called Robizoooo. Extremely good guy, a solid journal who knew places, people and things. At a personal level, we had many interesting conversations. We called each other 'bwana ya Carol' because our wives are both named Carol.
“He was keen on settling in the same estate where I live and we kept teasing each other how we would be visiting each other in old age with walking sticks. Sadly, that's all gone now,” Gachuri told Kenyans.co.ke.
On his part, Trevor Ombija stated that the deceased gave him his first job on radio despite being very inexperienced.
"He pushed me deep into the social/digital media sphere as my boss at RMS," recalled Nation Media Group’s Mac Otani.
Seasoned radio journalist Terry Nzau of Mbaitu FM said that Njogu was her mentor and friend who encouraged her to be the best in her field.
“I did not work with him in the same media house but he mentored me. He always called to tell me bravo Terry for the work you are doing. The last time we met he told me " am confident in your work and I believe you are going places, continue pressing the right button". I will miss Robiii as I called him. Rest in Peace my friend and mentor,” she eulogised.
