The Standard Group PLC, which saw off its top editor Ochieng Rapuro in January, has appointed Chaacha Mwita as Chief Executive Editor (CEE) to helm content production and strategic leadership – jumping from the board to the deep end of editorial management.
Mwita’s appointment has abolished the position of editor-in-chief at the Standard Group, at a time when the media house is undergoing a midlife crisis of sorts. Returning to the Standard for the umpteenth time, Chaacha Mwita brings more than 20 years of experience in leadership, communication, and policy engagement.
Standard Group CEO Marion Mwangi said Mwita’s appointment reflects the company’s commitment to digital innovation, audience-focused content, and journalistic excellence. The company has been wallowing in losses and has lately been experiencing difficulties paying its staff and creditor.
“We believe Chaacha’s solid achievements as a distinguished journalist and media leader will add value to the organisation as it seeks to reinvigorate its journalism and uphold its tenets of boldness and independence,” she said.
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She added that as the company undergoes a transformative phase, Mwita’s expertise in leadership, communication, and policy engagement will be crucial in shaping its future.
Mr Mwita stressed the need for a full transition to a digital-first newsroom. “My prime responsibility is to position The Standard Group in a way that will satisfy our audience, most of whom are digital consumers. One of the things I would like to see happen here is a full transition to a digital-first media house,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of adapting to changes in news consumption, talent development, and providing journalists with the tools they need to succeed. “We need to rigorously invest in investigations, research, and technology. Without the right tools, we cannot understand our audience’s needs or deliver content effectively,” he stated.
While acknowledging shifts in media platforms and audience behaviour, Mwita affirmed that journalism remains essential. “Journalism never dies. People will always seek accurate and reliable information. The challenge is adapting to evolving platforms and consumer habits. Today’s industry requires a blend of traditional and modern skills.”
Chaacha Mwita’s career includes conducting media assessments in several African countries including Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, eSwatini, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, and Uganda. He has held leadership roles at prominent organisations, including the Standard Group PLC — where he previously served as Editorial Director and later as a Board member — Nation Media Group, Aga Khan Foundation, the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC), and the Thomson Foundation in London.
He holds a Bachelor of Education (Arts) and a postgraduate diploma in Mass Communication from the University of Nairobi, as well as an MBA from the University of St Gallen, Switzerland.
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