Radio Africa Group CEO Martin Khafafa (left), legal officer Mercy Gichoya(Centre) and Group Editorial Director Paul Ilado cut the cake during The Star's 18-year anniversary celebration on July 14, 2025. /SHARON TRACY MUTHONIThe Star newspaper, a publication under Radio Africa Group, on Monday celebrated its 18th anniversary since its establishment in 2007.
Launched in July 2007 as The Nairobi Star, the newspaper began as a visually striking, digest-style publication that focused heavily on human interest stories across Kenya.
Eighteen years later, the Star has grown into one of Kenya’s most influential political newspapers, deeply sourced and consistently at the forefront of breaking major national stories.
Radio Africa Group staff share a cake during The Star's 18-year anniversary celebration on July 14, 2025. /SHARON TRACY MUTHONISpeaking during the anniversary ceremony, Radio Africa Group CEO Martin Khafafa reflected on the newspaper’s journey, describing it as one shaped by disruption, reinvention, and a commitment to credible journalism.
“Reflecting on the 18 years of leadership, I am filled with immense pride, humility, and gratitude,” Khafafa said.
Radio Africa Group staff reading the exclusive newspaper pullout special feature on the Star's journey during The Star's 18-year anniversary celebration on July 14, 2025. /SHARON TRACY MUTHONIEditorial Director Paul Ilado thanked the entire Star team, including its reporters and loyal readers, for their support over the years.
He noted the role the Star played during the post-election violence and subsequent International Criminal Court, which led to major growth.
“The guidance and the resolve of Gicheru and Pike were critical in ensuring we covered the events with depth, courage, and integrity,” Ilado said.
“We are grateful for the journey. The Star will continue to reinvent itself into refreshing content, investing in talents and staying true to its core value.”
Over the years, the newspaper has navigated the complexities of digital transformation, political turbulence, and evolving audience habits.
Radio Africa Group Editorial Director Paul Ilado shares cake with Group's Head of Finance James Mundia during The Star's 18-year anniversary celebration on July 14, 2025. /SHARON TRACY MUTHONIDespite the challenges, the Star has remained anchored in its founding mission: delivering independent, public-interest journalism.
In 2015, the Radio Africa Group launched Star Digital, an online extension of the print edition, to enhance audience experience beyond traditional platforms.
Group Editorial Director Paul Ilado addresses staff during The Star's 18-year anniversary celebration on July 14, 2025. /SHARON TRACY MUTHONIAs the Star enters adulthood, Khafafa says the paper's mission is far from complete.
"I am proud of the teams we have nurtured and the stories that have changed lives; this the legacy I want to protect."
