Joyce Omondi Waihiga has officially concluded her time as host of Citizen TV’s gospel program Rauka, marking an emotional finale to her second four-year run on the Sunday morning broadcast. Her departure signifies the conclusion of a journey that viewers had become familiar with since her comeback in 2022. The announcement came just a day before her final appearance, generating excitement among fans who had followed her on the show. Her exit also represents a broader shift in her personal and professional life as she enters a new phase. The farewell episode aired on Sunday, April 19, where she hosted her final broadcast with appreciation and reflection.
Joyce Omondi confirmed her departure through social media, informing followers that her last show would air the following morning. She described the experience as an honor and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as host. During her final broadcast, she delivered an emotional farewell while acknowledging the support she had received throughout her tenure. She also thanked viewers for joining her every Sunday and being part of the program’s gospel journey. Her message conveyed appreciation and closure, emphasizing how significant the role had been in her life. The episode served as a farewell moment not only for her but also for the show’s long-time supporters.
Her final episode was made more memorable by the presence of close friends and family members who attended the station to support her. Her mother and husband Waihiga Mwaura were among the attendees, with Mwaura bringing flowers and encouragement. The gesture added a personal and emotional dimension to the occasion, reflecting the strong support system behind her career. Viewers witnessed a warm send-off filled with celebration, reflection, and appreciation. The moment highlighted the balance she has maintained between her public life and private family support. It also demonstrated how deeply connected she remains to both her audience and loved ones.
Omondi returned to Rauka in February 2022, taking over after gospel singer Kambua Mathu concluded her 12-year run on the show. She co-hosted alongside Ken tha Deejay during her second tenure, creating a dynamic Sunday morning experience for viewers. Over the four years, she became a familiar and trusted face on the program, combining gospel music, inspiration, and conversation. Her presence helped maintain the show’s strong connection with its audience during a transitional period. She later confirmed that a new host would be introduced to continue alongside her co-presenter, ensuring continuity for the program. Her departure therefore represents both an ending and a planned transition.
Prior to her return to Rauka, Joyce Omondi had already established a diverse media and music career. She previously co-hosted the same show between 2012 and 2013 before leaving to pursue a Master’s degree in International Development at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. After completing her studies, she returned to Kenyan television and joined Switch TV in 2019, where she hosted the morning lifestyle show Full Circle with Joyce until 2020. Alongside her media work, she has also developed as a gospel artist with songs such as Conqueror, Kweli, and Naamini. She is also the founder of Epic Women Africa, a platform focused on faith and women’s empowerment. Her career reflects a combination of media influence, music ministry, and social impact.
Joyce Omondi Waihiga’s departure from Rauka marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in Kenyan gospel television. Her second four-year tenure reinforced her position as both a presenter and inspirational figure in the gospel media space. The emotional farewell episode, supported by family, colleagues, and viewers, highlighted the impact she has made over the years. As she transitions into a new phase of her life, she leaves behind a legacy of consistency, faith-driven content, and meaningful engagement with audiences. Her next steps remain uncertain, but her influence on gospel broadcasting and media in Kenya continues to be firmly established.