Some of Kenya’s most remarkable leaders and changemakers have congratulated the Star newspaper as it marks 18 years of journalism.
The Star became the first newspaper in Kenya to introduce the Person of the Year award in 2018. The prestigious award spotlights outstanding Kenyans who shape the country’s progress in bold and inspiring ways.
In 2018, the award went to George Kinoti, who was then serving as the Director of Criminal Investigations, and Noordin Haji, who was the Director of Public Prosecutions. Both were recognised for their roles in strengthening the fight against corruption and crime.
In 2019, the title was shared by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, known for his relentless public interest litigation, Patrick Njoroge, who was then Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, and Justice Mumbi Ngugi, celebrated for her bold rulings defending the constitution.
Omtatah said the Star has played an important role in giving Kenyans credible information and holding those in power to account.
“Over the years, your stories have shed light on issues that matter and amplified voices that might otherwise be ignored. But I encourage you to go even deeper; to challenge the status quo fearlessly and to always put public interest above all else. We live in times when truth is contested and independent journalism is more vital than ever. Keep asking hard questions, keep pushing for accountability, and keep giving a voice to ordinary Kenyans,” he said.
In 2020, the award shifted focus to frontline heroes, honouring Kenya’s health workers for their sacrifices and commitment during the Covid-19 pandemic. HIV researcher Benson Edagwa was shortlisted for helping create the formula for a long-acting ARV given as an injection only once a year.
Eng Millicent Alooh, the secretary general of the Association of Medical Engineering of Kenya, was among the health workers nominated that year.
She praised the Star for its bold and inclusive storytelling. “The Star has consistently highlighted voices from across the country, from policy influencers to community champions, amplifying stories that matter. I particularly appreciate your focus on healthcare, innovation and governance, which sparks critical conversations and shapes national development,” she said.
“To further strengthen your impact, I would encourage more in-depth features on underrepresented sectors like biomedical engineering and public health systems—areas that directly affect lives but often remain in the shadows. More investigative and solution-based journalism in such fields can inspire accountability and progress.”
The following year, in 2021, Wambui Nyutu, vice chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission, was recognised for her efforts to strengthen national unity.
Wambui urged the Star to continue upholding balanced and responsible reporting.
“As a champion of cohesion and peaceful co-existence, I urge you to continue upholding balanced and responsible journalism that unites rather than divides. Let every story be told with care, free from bias and hate speech, and with respect for all communities. Your work holds great power to inform and heal. Congratulations on 18 years of service to the nation. May you keep growing as a voice that builds bridges,” she said.
In 2022, the award went to Wafula Chebukati, then serving as chairperson of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. In 2023, celebrated marathoner Faith Kipyegon was named Star Person of the Year after her record-breaking season inspired millions across the world.
Last year, Gen Z were honoured for leading the fight against the controversial Finance Bill, 2024, challenging the status quo and redefined the concept of patriotism.
“2024 has been unprecedented in many ways in Kenya’s history. From the Gen Z protests that nearly brought the country to its knees, to the flooding that wreaked havoc throughout the country, a lot has happened in 11 months. However, despite the many challenges, there are valiant men and women in different spheres who have made a difference in the lives of other Kenyans,” Political Editor Felix Olick, who also chairs the award’s committee, said last year.
Nominees are usually unveiled in December, days before Christmas. The public is usually called to make nominations via an online form.
Four broad guidelines usually help in settling on the eventual winner. They must also have inspired or helped fellow citizens, invented a solution that has dramatically changed lives, and have qualities such as honesty and integrity.
