Global communications group Havas Africa has announced the rebranding of its Kenyan operations from Havas PR to Havas Red Kenya.
The move marks a major step in the agency’s long-term growth
strategy and its commitment to delivering locally driven, globally connected
communications in East Africa.
The rebrand integrates the Nairobi-based team into HAVAS
Red, HAVAS’ award-winning global micro-network focused on PR, social and
influencer marketing.
It follows the network’s recent expansion into South Africa
in October 2023 and Côte d’Ivoire in April 2024.
“We have been proud to operate in Kenya for several years as
HAVAS PR, and this transition to HAVAS Red marks an exciting new chapter in our
journey,” Global CEO of HAVAS Red and Global Chairperson of the HAVAS PR
Network James Wright said.
Wright described Africa as “one of the most dynamic and
high-potential regions for our business,” highlighting Kenya’s central role in
the network’s regional strategy.
“This rebrand reflects our long-term commitment to deepening
our impact across East Africa,” he said.
The Nairobi office will now operate under the leadership of
Phyllis Kinyanjui, who has been appointed Managing Director of HAVAS Red Kenya.
Kinyanjui brings extensive experience in strategic
communications and public affairs, with a strong focus on culture, community
and impact.
“At HAVAS Red Kenya, we are building on a strong legacy and
entering a bold new phase,” Kinyanjui said.
“Our goal is to craft powerful, purpose-driven stories that
are grounded in local culture and relevant on a global stage.”
HAVAS Red’s footprint now includes 21 markets worldwide,
with operations in Australia, China, Côte d’Ivoire, France, Germany, Greece,
Italy, South Africa, the UK, the US, and others.
With its enhanced presence in Kenya, the agency reinforces
its role as a key player in East Africa’s communications landscape.
Provit Chemmani, CEO of HAVAS Africa, said Kenya has always
been a strategic market for the company.
“This rebrand brings new energy, global resources, and
strategic solutions that will help our teams and clients to scale new heights,”
he said.
“We are thrilled to have leaders like Phyllis and our
Nairobi office guiding this next phase of growth.”
HAVAS Red has gained global recognition for its work.
In 2024, PRovoke Media named it both the Global Midsize
Agency of the Year and the EMEA Midsize Agency of the Year.
The agency has led campaigns for top brands including
Coca-Cola, adidas, Domino’s, Tourism Tasmania, and the UK National Health
Service.
The network also continues to expand its service offerings
through solutions like Industry by HAVAS Red for B2B communications, Red Impact
for ESG and sustainability, and Health by HAVAS Red for health and wellness
campaigns.
Other specialties include Peaks for executive branding and
Red Connect, a B2B content marketing practice.
With its rebrand, HAVAS Red Kenya aims to help East African
brands tell their stories with greater creativity, authenticity and purpose
combining local understanding with global expertise.
