The Standard is Kenya's oldest continuously published newspaper. Founded as the African Standard in 1902 by A.M. Jeevanjee, it evolved into the East African Standard and is now simply known as The Standard. The newspaper's history reflects Kenya's transformation from colony to independent nation.
Foundation and Early Years
Alibhai Mulla Jeevanjee founded the African Standard in Mombasa in 1902. The newspaper was the first non-white newspaper in East Africa, initially published weekly. It covered news relevant to the African and Asian communities and provided commentary on colonial policies. The paper gave voice to marginalized communities.
The Name Change
In 1905, Jeevanjee sold the African Standard to two British businessmen, Maia Anderson and Rudolf Franz Mayer. They renamed it the East African Standard and moved operations to Nairobi. The renamed paper continued to grow, becoming an established English-language newspaper.
Colonial Period Influence
The East African Standard became Kenya's most significant English-language newspaper during the colonial period. It covered political developments, economic issues, and social changes. The newspaper's reporting influenced educated Kenyans' understanding of colonial affairs and later independence struggles.
Independence and Beyond
At Kenyan independence (1963), The Standard adapted to new political realities. Under various ownership and editorial leadership, it continued as Kenya's major newspaper. The newspaper covered Kenya's political development, economic challenges, and social transformations through independence to contemporary times.
The Aga Khan Era
For extended periods, the newspaper was associated with or influenced by the Aga Khan organization. While not directly owned by AKDN, the newspaper's evolution was linked to broader East African media development patterns in which AKDN was influential.
Contemporary Status
The Standard (the current name) remains one of Kenya's largest newspapers by circulation. It operates as both print and digital publications. The newspaper competes with Daily Nation (larger circulation) and other news sources. It maintains editorial independence and continues to provide news coverage and analysis.
Architecture and History
The Standard's offices and physical infrastructure have been landmarks in Nairobi's media and business landscape. The newspaper's physical and institutional presence is visible testimony to its long history.
Legacy and Significance
The Standard's journey from Jeevanjee's independent voice for Africans and Asians to a major national newspaper reflects Kenya's broader transformation. The newspaper's longevity demonstrates the viability of independent journalism despite political pressures.
See Also
- Nation Media Group
- A.M. Jeevanjee
- Nairobi Business District
- Kenyan Asians Overview
- Pio Gama Pinto
- Kenyan Asian Philanthropy
Sources
- Wikipedia: "The Standard (Kenya)" (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Standard_(Kenya))
- Daily Nation: "Alibhai Mulla Jeevanjee, the man who built Nairobi" (https://nation.africa/kenya/life-and-style/dn2/alibhai-mulla-jeevanjee-the-man-who-built-nairobi-918866)
- The Standard Media Official Website (https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/)