NAIROBI, Kenya-Kenya’s media fraternity has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of Rashid Idi, a respected senior videographer who worked with the Standard Group for more than a decade.
Idi passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2025, after a short illness while receiving treatment at a Nairobi hospital, his family has confirmed.
Idi was widely admired for his dedication to visual storytelling and his commitment to journalistic excellence.
Since joining the Standard Group in January 2013, he played a key role in shaping impactful news coverage across the publisher’s platforms, earning the respect of colleagues and viewers alike.
In 2016, his work was recognised on the continental stage when he won the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year Award, alongside journalist Asha Mwilu, an achievement that highlighted his technical skill and creative vision in the field.
Colleagues describe Idi as humble, dependable and deeply committed to his craft — qualities that made him a cherished part of the Standard Group’s editorial team.
Senior Standard Group videographer Rashid Idi dies after a short illness at a hospital in Nairobi, family confirms; he joined the organisation in 2013.
Tributes have poured in from fellow journalists, who remember him not only as a gifted cameraman but as a team player who always supported others.
“What a sad way to end a colourful and cheerful Christmas Day… my brother Rashid Idi, from our days at the KIMC and on to KBC and Citizen before you left for KTN, we have been so close. A good football player and a dedicated cameraman in the field of journalism. Last time I was with you was a three weeks ago. Bro, news of your passing has hit me hard. Sad, sad, sad. Go well my friend Rashid,” ODM Communications boss Phillip Etale posted on social media.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi Rajiun . May Allah forgive Rashid and grant him mercy. A truly kind and polite soul, and a brilliant journalist. I remember he won the 2016 CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year Award. Pole to family and friends.
The news of his passing comes as a stark reminder of the often unseen risks and pressures faced by media professionals, and many in the industry have taken to social media to offer condolences to his loved ones and to celebrate his contributions to Kenyan journalism.
