Kenya's oldest media house The Standard Group on Tuesday opened two new radio stations, adding to the existing Radio Maisha as it seeks to expand its business in the media industry.
For decades, Standard Group has shaped Kenyan media industry, battling closure in the 90s, with the state accusing it of supporting the opposition.
Group Chief Executive Officer Orlando Lyomu witnessed the official launching of Spice FM and Vybez FM. The two will focus on social-based debates.
"The Standard Group CEO Orlando Lyomu present during the official launch of #SpiceAndVybez#spiceandvybez #nobodycanstopreggae #GoodVybesOnly#SugarSpiceAndEverythingNice," KTN tweeted.
Radio boss Tom Japanni, who first joined Standard Group in 2008 from BBC said the new stations will give loyal fans a variety to chose from.
"This is a great milestone. Our fans will have a variety to chose from. We shall continue giving them what they need. Vybez FM and Spice FM are now on air," he said.
Standard Group already owns KTN News, KTN Home, Standard tabloid, Radio Maisha and the Nairobian. It is closely associated with retired President Daniel Moi's family.
Earlier this year, Lyomu said the company will continue launching new products to remain competitive in the media industry.
“We have been aggressive in creating new platforms and products to grow revenues. A lot of work was done last year and we expect to see the impact in terms of revenues partly in 2019, but mostly in 2020,” he said.
“Within the existing and new platforms, we want to drive new and innovative products. I believe that we will see a much-improved performance going forward.”