KEOwnership & classification
Founded: 2007
Ownership
The Star was launched in July 2007 as the Nairobi Star and rebranded as The Star around 2009. It is owned and published by the Radio Africa Group, a Nairobi-based media company co-founded in 2000 by Ghanaian-Kenyan businessman Patrick Quarcoo together with William Pike and Kenyan businessman Kiprono Kittony (Radio Africa's chairman and a former Nairobi Securities Exchange chairman). Quarcoo stepped down as CEO in 2024 but remains a major shareholder; the group also owns radio brands such as Kiss 100 and Classic FM.
Funding
The Star is a commercial, advertising- and sales-funded tabloid-style daily backed by Radio Africa Group's broader radio and digital advertising business, with a free website. It receives no state or party funding.
Affiliation & stance
The Star is privately and commercially owned by Radio Africa Group with no party or government control, which makes it INDEPENDENT. Its reporting is broadly centrist with a populist, human-interest tilt rather than a fixed partisan line, matching the site's INDEPENDENT / CENTER classification.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 902
67/100
Factual
65/100
Objective
1002
Articles
970
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
I have no interest in any government seat — Uhuru - the-star.co.ke
Uhuru, a prominent Kenyan politician, stated in an interview with The Star that he has no interest in pursuing any government position. The statement comes amid ongoing political discussions and speculation about his future involvement in governance.
‘Sitaki kuitwa sponsor!’ Uhuru reacts after Sifuna mention sparks cheers at Wamalwa memorial - the-star.co.ke
The article reports on President Uhuru Kenyatta's reaction to a mention of Sifuna during a memorial event for Wamalwa. The reference to Sifuna, which appears to be a local figure or community member, led to cheers among attendees, prompting Uhuru to respond with the phrase 'Sitaki kuitwa sponsor!' which translates to 'Let them be sponsors.' The event appears to be a local commemoration, highlighting community engagement and political sentiment.
Murkomen orders preventive action against political goons - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that Murkomen has directed preventive measures against individuals described as 'political goons.' These actions are likely aimed at curbing unrest or violence linked to political activities. The term 'preventive action' suggests steps such as surveillance, legal proceedings, or security interventions. The context implies heightened tensions around political processes, possibly related to elections or governance issues. However, the article provides minimal detail beyond this directive.
Gachagua mourns late Johanna Ng’eno’s brother - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that Gachagua, a prominent figure in Kenya, has expressed condolences over the death of Johanna Ng'eno's brother. The piece focuses on the mourning process and the significance of the event within the community. It highlights the personal connection between Gachagua and the deceased, emphasizing the impact of the loss on those close to him. No further details about the circumstances of the death or the relationship between Gachagua and Johanna Ng'eno are provided.
Infantino asked to stay away from youth tournament - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been requested to refrain from attending a youth football tournament. The request appears to be part of ongoing discussions regarding the management and organization of youth competitions under FIFA's oversight. While the exact reasons for the request are not detailed, it suggests potential tensions or differing opinions within FIFA leadership about the role of high-profile figures in such events. The piece focuses on the administrative aspect of the tournament rather than delving into broader implications or controversies.
Multiple-vehicle crash reported at Salgaa - the-star.co.ke
The article reports on a multiple-vehicle crash that occurred at Salgaa, though specific details such as the number of vehicles involved, casualties, or cause of the accident are not provided. The report appears to be a brief update rather than an in-depth investigation. As there are no additional details or contextual information offered, the incident remains underreported. The lack of further information suggests that the event may not yet have been fully investigated or documented by authorities.
[PHOTOS] Ruto makes surprise stop at Kimutwa market - the-star.co.ke
President William Ruto made an unexpected visit to the Kimutwa market in Nairobi, where he interacted with local vendors and shoppers. The visit was described as a surprise by local observers, highlighting the president's engagement with everyday citizens. The event provided a glimpse into the informal economy and community life in the capital. No official statements were released regarding the purpose of the visit.
Fourteen killed in strike on Myanmar monastery - the-star.co.ke
A military strike targeted a monastery in Myanmar, resulting in the deaths of fourteen people. The attack has raised concerns about the ongoing conflict in the region and the safety of civilians. Monasteries often serve as places of refuge and spiritual significance, making such attacks particularly alarming. The incident highlights the escalating violence and instability in Myanmar, which has been a focal point of international attention due to its complex political and ethnic dynamics. The lack of immediate official statements or detailed reports suggests a possible information gap or restricted access to the area.
Ruto mourns former High Court judge Joseph Mutava Mbalu - the-star.co.ke
President William Ruto has expressed his condolences over the death of former High Court judge Joseph Mutava Mbalu. Judge Mbalu was a respected figure in Kenya's judiciary and had served in various judicial capacities. His passing has been acknowledged by prominent figures in Kenyan politics and legal circles. The news highlights the significance of his contributions to the country's legal system and the respect he commanded among peers.
Seven dead after police vehicle and car crash during pursuit - the-star.co.ke
A tragic accident occurred in Kenya when a police vehicle collided with another car during a high-speed chase, resulting in seven fatalities. The incident took place during a pursuit, though specific details regarding the cause of the collision or the identities of those involved have not been disclosed in the provided information. Such incidents often raise concerns about road safety and law enforcement procedures. The lack of additional context suggests that further investigation or official reports may be required to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the crash.
5 things to know about cataract - the-star.co.ke
The article provides five key points about cataracts, focusing on their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies. It explains that cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, often age-related, and can lead to vision impairment. The piece highlights common symptoms such as blurred vision and light sensitivity, and mentions diagnostic methods like visual acuity tests. Treatment options include glasses, medication, and surgery, with cataract surgery being the most effective solution. Prevention tips emphasize protecting eyes from UV exposure and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Laptop catches fire on US flight, with passenger treated at airport - the-star.co.ke
A laptop caught fire during a flight from the United States, prompting emergency procedures. A passenger was treated at the airport due to the incident. The event highlights potential safety concerns related to electronic devices on aircraft.
Passaris drops Makadara bid, to defend Nairobi Woman Rep seat - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that Passaris has withdrawn his candidacy in the Makadara constituency to focus on defending his current position as the Nairobi Woman Representative. This decision comes amid ongoing political dynamics in Kenya's parliamentary elections.