Radio Africa bids farewell to chairman Kiprono Kittony after 27 years of leadership

Radio Africa Group on Thursday held a farewell celebration for outgoing chairman Kiprono Kittony, marking the end of a 27-year tenure during which he helped steer the media company from a single radio station into one of Kenya's leading multimedia organisations.

The event brought together directors, senior management, staff and former colleagues who paid tribute to Kittony's leadership, vision and role in shaping the growth of the company since its establishment.

Founder and former Group CEO Patrick Quarcoo led the tributes, describing Kittony as one of the key figures behind the establishment and survival of the company.

“Without him, this business would not have existed. There were massive power plays, but Kip stepped into the front and solved them,” Quarcoo said.

He credited the outgoing chairman with helping the company navigate political transitions, regulatory challenges and commercial pressures while safeguarding the company's independence.

Current Group CEO Martin Khafafa said Kittony leaves behind a stable institution and a workforce whose lives have been transformed through opportunities created by the company.

“You're leaving a stable organisation and prosperous people. What you're leaving behind is a real legacy,” Khafafa said.

He noted that Radio Africa had grown into one of the country's most influential media organisations under Kittony's stewardship.

The Group Board Director Richard Ayah said Kittony's leadership style encouraged innovation and confidence among employees.

He said the outgoing chairman consistently challenged teams to think beyond immediate obstacles and focus on long-term growth.

Radio Africa Human Resource Manager Jemima Ngode described Kittony as a leader who invested in people and created an environment where staff could grow professionally.

“A great leader is not known by the loss that is felt when they leave but by what they leave behind,” she said.

Ngode said many employees had built successful careers under his guidance and mentorship.

The group's finance leadership also praised Kittony's role in strengthening the company's governance structures and supporting sustainable growth over nearly three decades.

Also speaking at the event, Group Programme Controller James Njoroge reflected on Radio Africa's transformation from a single frequency in Nairobi into a national multimedia brand that has nurtured generations of media professionals.

“Under your stewardship, Radio Africa became more than a media company. It became a place where talent was discovered, nurtured and given the opportunity to thrive,” he said.

Group Editorial Director Paul Ilado traced the company's beginnings to discussions between founders and investors nearly three decades ago, saying Kittony's leadership helped the organisation navigate both political and commercial challenges.

“If it were not for the leadership, probably we would not be having this business,” Ilado said.

In his farewell remarks, Kittony said there was no reason for sadness because he would remain closely associated with the company as a shareholder, adviser and friend.

“I am not going anywhere. I will continue coming here as a friend of Radio Africa and as a business leader willing to share counsel in the years ahead,” he said.

Kittony recalled joining Radio Africa at the age of 34, admitting he had little experience in corporate governance at the time but embraced the challenge of helping build the company.

He said the journey had been defined by both triumphs and difficult moments, including frequent confrontations with political leaders over editorial decisions.

“Above all, a formidable enterprise has been created here at Radio Africa. We have created employment, paid taxes, informed and entertained people, and carved a niche as a powerful and independent media house,” he said.

The outgoing chairman expressed confidence in the company's future, saying Radio Africa remains well-positioned for continued growth and innovation.

His departure comes as he takes on new responsibilities elsewhere in corporate leadership, including chairing the board of Kenya Airways.