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 494
80/100
Factual
77/100
Objective
640
Articles
640
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
Worldwide, 117.3 million people will be displaced by 2025.
Sve veće posljedice ukrajinskih napada: Rusija uvozi benzin iz Indije kako bi ublažila nestašice goriva
55 more Kenyans return home from South Africa amid xenophobic attacks
High Court orders Ruto to reconstitute Cabinet within 120 days over gender rule - the-star.co.ke
Kenya to benefit from G7-backed financial reforms, Ruto says
Utumishi Girls fire: Eight students plead not guilty to 16 counts of murder
Jubilee Party rejects NTSA's annual vehicle inspection plan - the-star.co.ke
Fear Over Facts? How Kenya's health messaging fuels public panic
Ruto interrupts speech over 'faulty sound system' during launch of Ngong RD viaduct - the-star.co.ke
Recent coverage
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Savula: Mulembe will settle for nothing less than the presidency in 2032 - the-star.co.ke
The article reports a statement attributed to Savula regarding John Mulembe's ambition to become president in 2032. It suggests that Mulembe has no intention of settling for anything less than the highest office in Kenya. The piece highlights Mulembe's determination and potential political aspirations, though it does not provide additional context or details about his current position or political activities.
Two arrested as police seize Sh6m fake notes along Thika-Garissa Highway - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that two individuals were arrested by police who seized counterfeit Kenyan shilling notes worth Sh6 million along the Thika-Garissa Highway. The incident highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat financial fraud and illegal currency circulation. The fake notes were discovered during a routine operation, underscoring the persistent challenge of counterfeiting in Kenya. Authorities emphasized the importance of public vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious currency.
Fatal police shooting alone does not amount to torture, Supreme Court rules - the-star.co.ke
The Kenyan Supreme Court has ruled that a fatal police shooting by itself does not constitute torture. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about police conduct and human rights in Kenya. The ruling suggests that additional factors beyond the act of shooting must be considered to classify an incident as torture. The court's interpretation may influence future legal proceedings involving police actions and victim rights. This case highlights the complexities surrounding the definition and application of international human rights standards within national legal frameworks.
Supreme Court dismisses journalist Arshad Sharif family's appeal - the-star.co.ke
The Supreme Court of Kenya has dismissed an appeal filed by the family of journalist Arshad Sharif. This decision comes after the court had previously ruled against the family's petition seeking justice for their loved one. The case likely relates to legal actions taken following Arshad Sharif's death, which was reportedly linked to his work as a journalist. The dismissal indicates that the highest judicial authority in Kenya has concluded its review of the matter, leaving the family's legal recourse exhausted within the national court system.
Omollo orders release of motorbikes impounded over minor traffic offences in Western region - the-star.co.ke
The Western Province police chief, Mr. Omollo, has directed the release of motorbikes that were seized due to minor traffic violations. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the enforcement of traffic regulations and their impact on citizens' daily lives. The move aims to address complaints from residents who feel that the impoundment of vehicles for minor infractions is overly harsh and disruptive. Local authorities are expected to comply with this directive, which reflects a shift towards more lenient enforcement practices in the region.
Supreme, Kadhi courts lead Judiciary performance - the-star.co.ke
The article highlights the performance of the Supreme Court and Kadhi Courts within Kenya's judiciary system. It suggests that these courts have been particularly effective or notable in their operations compared to other judicial bodies. The piece likely discusses recent cases, efficiency, or public perception of these courts. However, due to limited information provided, the exact nature of their 'leadership' in judicial performance remains unclear. The focus appears to be on recognizing the contributions and achievements of these specific courts.
[PHOTOS] Omollo presides over opening of Emuhaya Sub-County headquarters - the-star.co.ke
The article reports on the opening ceremony of the Emuhaya Sub-County headquarters, which was presided over by Omollo. The event is described through photographs, highlighting the significance of the new facility within the local administrative structure. No specific details about the event's impact, community reactions, or related policies are provided beyond the ceremonial aspect. The focus appears to be on the formal inauguration rather than any broader implications or controversies.
France records 2,025 excess deaths at peak of heatwave as Europe braces for more extreme weather - the-star.co.ke
France experienced a significant health crisis during a recent heatwave, with 2,025 excess deaths recorded at its peak. This figure highlights the severe impact of extreme temperatures on public health. As Europe prepares for potentially more intense weather patterns in the future, concerns over climate change and its effects on human life continue to grow. Authorities and experts are urging increased preparedness and adaptive measures to mitigate the risks associated with rising global temperatures.
NPS seeks Italy's support to establish Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit - the-star.co.ke
The National Police Service (NPS) of Kenya has approached Italy for assistance in establishing a Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit. This initiative aims to enhance security and law enforcement capabilities within Nairobi, the capital city. The request suggests a potential collaboration between Kenyan authorities and Italian experts or institutions. Such a move could indicate efforts to modernize policing strategies or address specific security challenges in the region. However, the specifics of the requested support and the nature of the proposed partnership remain unclear.
SHA warns public against fraudsters - the-star.co.ke
The article reports that the Securities and Exchange Commission of Kenya (SHA) has issued a warning to the public about fraudulent activities by unscrupulous individuals. The alert highlights common tactics used by fraudsters, such as fake investment schemes and phishing attempts, which could lead to financial loss. The warning emphasizes the importance of vigilance and advises citizens to verify the authenticity of any investment opportunities before committing funds. It also encourages the public to report suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
Taylor Swift's rumoured wedding celebrations begin with star-studded New York event - the-star.co.ke
The article reports on Taylor Swift's rumored wedding celebrations, highlighting a star-studded event in New York. It mentions the event as part of a series of festivities surrounding her potential marriage, though no official confirmation is provided. The piece focuses on the celebrity aspect and the excitement generated by the rumors, without offering any substantial details about the event itself or the couple's relationship status.
Motorists stranded after Pangani road blockade - the-star.co.ke
A road blockade in Pangani has caused significant disruption, leaving motorists stranded. The incident highlights concerns over infrastructure reliability and potential impacts on local transportation networks. Authorities have yet to provide detailed information regarding the cause of the blockade or expected resolution times. Residents and travelers are advised to seek alternative routes while the situation remains unresolved.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided