Radio Africa Fires Staff Who Have Worked For Over 20 Years
It is yet to be established which divisions have been specifically targeted in the exercise.
Marvin Chege 
In a move aimed at safeguarding the long-term sustainability of its operations, Radio Africa Group has announced a strategic workforce reduction, a move that saw 27 employees lose their jobs at the media company.
In an internal memo dated Friday, April 25 and obtained by Viral Tea, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Martin Khafafa revealed that the decision was one of the most difficult in its history, and it comes in response to rising operational costs and ongoing economic challenges.
Some of the employees affected by the latest redundancy exercise have worked at the Lions Place-based media house, famous for huge radio brands such as Kiss 100 FM, Radio Jambo, Smooth 105.5 and Classic 105 among others, for more than two decades.
Radio Africa Group COO Martin Khafafa. /THE STAR
"Yesterday, we made the incredibly difficult decision to let go of 27 of our colleagues. This was one of the most challenging moments in our journey. These individuals have been part of our team for many years, some for over 20 years," the memo read in part.
"Please know that this decision was not taken lightly; it was necessary to ensure the sustainability of our business while facing rising operational costs in a harsh economic climate."
The restructuring is part of a broader plan to stabilise the company’s operations and position it for long-term growth in the evolving audiovisual industry.
Khafafa recognised the emotional toll the decision might take on the remaining team and promised to maintain transparency and offer ongoing support.
"I understand that the current mood is heavy, and I fully recognise the uncertainty this may have caused. This restructuring is intended to stabilise our operations and position the company for future growth. Our priority now is to support each other, remain focused, and continue delivering the value and experience that our clients expect from us," Khafafa added.
"I want to reassure you of my commitment to transparency, stability, and creating a more resilient company as we work to transform our organisation into a leading audiovisual business. I am confident in our ability to navigate this period together. Should you have any concerns or need my support, my door remains open."
The last time Radio Africa embarked on redundancies was before Patrick Quarcoo left as RAG CEO and founder in July 2024, in a letter addressed to all correspondents. The media conglomerate at the time stated that it intended to streamline its operations to create a "leaner and efficient organisation."
This move outlined the challenges still facing legacy media houses as not only are they competing with fast-rising digital platforms, but also alternative media sources, including bloggers, influencers and celebrities themselves, with most of the advertising revenue being directed to the other platforms contributed by the rise of social media.
Other than the radio stations, Radio Africa is also known for hosting media brands such as The Star newspaper and entertainment news website Mpasho.
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