Founder and CEO Patrick Quarcoo has retired from Radio Africa Group after 24 years of service.
Radio Africa Group Chair of the Board Kiprono Kittony announced his exit on Wednesday.
Kittony said t Chief Operating Officer Martin Khafafa has been appointed by the board to manage the company on an interim basis.
Kittony said RAG is grateful for Quarcoo’s dedication and leadership over the years.
“His contributions have laid a strong foundation for our future. As we embark on this new chapter, we aim to leverage our digital platforms more aggressively and ensure sustainable growth and continue to deliver value for our advertising partners,” Kittony said.
He said the retirement of Quarcoo comes at a time when the media landscape is rapidly changing.
“By refocusing our efforts on digital innovation, we are poised to deliver even more compelling content and improve our profitability. We thank Quarcoo for his years of service and wish him all the best in his retirement,” Kittony added.
Kittony said Quarcoo has been instrumental in growing its portfolio to six radio stations, a national newspaper and digital assets reaching millions of Kenyans.
“He also spearheaded our presence in Nigeria. His innovative vision and leadership have significantly impacted the media industry across the continent,” Kittony said.
As Radio Africa Group moves forward, it said the transition marks a pivotal moment for the business.
“We are committed to realigning our operations to enhance cost efficiency, drive profitability and digital growth in the light of major industry changes. This includes an intensified focus on digital transformation to meet the evolving needs of our audience and to capitalize on emerging market opportunities,” Kittony added.
In a statement on his exit, Quarcoo reflected on his journey at Radio Africa Group.
He notes that even as he exits, he is hopeful that the company is in a pivotal phase.
“When I started Radio Africa Group in 2000, my vision was to create a platform that could inform, inspire, and connect people across Kenya and the continent,” Quarcoo said.
“As I retire, Radio Africa Group is entering a pivotal phase of its journey. This transition provides a unique opportunity for the company to realign its strategies, focusing on cost efficiencies, enhancing our profitability and content initiatives.”
Quarcoo thanked Radio Africa Group staff for their support and dedication throughout the years he has been in the company saying they registered tremendous growth.
“We have grown from a single-frequency radio station to a thriving group of six influential stations with over 40 transmitters across Kenya, with an expansion into Nigeria, a newspaper and a significant digital presence,” he said.
“I am confident that the new leadership team will drive the needed changes with the same passion and commitment that we have always upheld. They are well-equipped to take the company forward, leveraging our strong foundation to achieve even greater success.”
To his team of management, Quarcoo said he was proud of what they had accomplished together.
“Your creativity, resilience, and dedication have been the driving force behind our success. I encourage you to embrace this new chapter with the same enthusiasm and commitment to excellence,” he said.
He at the same time lauded advertisers for their unwavering support and partnership over the years.
“Your trust in Radio Africa as a marketing partner has been instrumental in our growth. As we transition, we look forward to continuing our collaboration, offering innovative solutions that meet your evolving needs.”
“Thank you all for being a part of this remarkable journey. I wish you all the best in the exciting times ahead.”
