Lorna Irungu – Macharia dies from COVID-19 complications

Lorna Irungu – Macharia has died from Covid-19 complications, the family has said.

She was the Managing Director of Gina Din Group, a leading communications consultancy company that was recently acquired by Edelman, an American firm.

“She passed on at The Karen Hospital, Nairobi, while undergoing treatment for COVID-19. Lorna’s interment will be on March 23, 2021 in a private family function,” the statement from the family reads.

“The family knows that Lorna is deeply loved by many and asks for your continued prayers and requests privacy during this difficult time but also informs that a public virtual celebration of her life will be organized and details will be communicated shortly. We loved you Lorna but the Lord loved you more.”

Lorna previously worked at Nation FM as a radio presenter and at KTN Kenya as host of the Omo Pick A Box show.

For 20 years, Lorna had bravely battled Lupus, a long-term autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal, healthy tissue.

She underwent several kidney transplants and was vocal about her fight with the disease. Lorna is survived by her husband Edwin and a daughter.

Tourism CS Najib Balala said on Twitter: “It is with great sadness that I have learnt of the passing on of Lorna Irungu. Lorna was a good friend and a true professional in the media and communications field. May her soul rest in eternal peace.”

David Makali, a veteran journalist said: “Farewell Lorna Irungu, you were a pacesetter and a jolly, bubbly soul. Memory is reserved for such as you. You surely shall be missed. Devastating.”

Suzanna Owiyo, a renowned musician and UNEP Ambassador said: “I will remember you for the warm hospitality you accorded me during Pres. Obama’s luncheon in Kogelo. Devastating indeed. Rest with the angels Lorna Irungu.”

We have just lost one of the very best.

— John-Allan Namu (@johnallannamu) March 22, 2021

Several journalists have succumbed to COVID-19 in the past one month. They include Winnie Mukami (formerly of NTV), Robin Njogu (Royal Media Services), Dr. Patricia Wawira Njuki (International Organisation for Migration) and Chebet Karago (formerly of Nation).

The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) released a statement on Monday calling for recognition of journalists as some of worst-hit group of workers who need special consideration for the COVID-19 vaccine as they are also on the frontline.

“We therefore call on the government to equally look into easing the cost of treating for Covid 19 by allowing for partial treatment of the same by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to ease the pressure on families,” said Dr Dorothy Njoroge, AMWIK Chairperson.