NTV Swahili news anchor Fridah Mwaka has dismissed rumours suggesting she has permanently left Nation Media Group.
The journalist clarified that she is simply away from work on annual leave. Consequently, she reassured worried viewers that she would return to their screens.
The confusion emerged after her broadcast on Sunday, November 8, 2026. Many viewers interpreted her remarks as a farewell message.
However, Mwaka has now addressed the speculation directly. She urged her supporters to remain calm as she enjoys her vacation.
Fridah Mwaka Reassures Worried Fans
Taking to social media, Mwaka shared a message combining Kiswahili and English. She affectionately addressed her followers while explaining her temporary absence.
“My dearest fans nawapenda sana. Ila nawaishi mtulie, Nipo likizoni tu (Leave) siendi kokote jamani. Inshallah tutakutana hivi karibuni,” she wrote.
Her message quickly clarified the situation surrounding her absence.Furthermore, she assured viewers that she had no immediate plans to leave the station.
Her clarification comes after speculation spread across social media and entertainment platforms.
Lofty Matambo to Continue Broadcasting Solo
Meanwhile, Mwaka confirmed that her longtime broadcasting partner, Lofty Matambo, would continue presenting during her absence.
Matambo will steer NTV Wikendi’s Swahili news coverage alone while his colleague enjoys her vacation. The two presenters have developed a familiar partnership on NTV’s weekend bulletins.
Therefore, viewers will temporarily see Matambo handling the broadcasts without his usual co-anchor. However, Mwaka’s clarification suggests their familiar on-screen partnership will resume after her leave.

Fridah Mwaka’s Future at NTV
Mwaka’s announcement has brought relief to viewers who feared losing the celebrated journalist. Her earlier broadcast had fuelled speculation about a possible career change.
Nevertheless, she has maintained that she is not going anywhere. Her clarification also highlights how quickly speculation can spread following television appearances.
For now, Mwaka is enjoying her break away from the newsroom. Meanwhile, her fans can look forward to seeing her reunite with Matambo when she returns to NTV.



