Founded Liberia's first independent newspaper, The Daily Observer, and is credited with promoting press freedom and investigative journalism in the country.
Kenneth Yakpawolo Best, a Liberian journalist, is renowned for founding the Daily Observer, Liberia's first independent daily newspaper, in 1981. This pioneering venture marked a significant milestone in Liberia's media landscape, offering an alternative narrative to the state-controlled press.
Born on October 28, 1938, in Harrisburg, St. Paul River, Montserrado County, Liberia, Best was raised in an Americo-Liberian family of West Indian descent. He received his early education at St. Patrick's Elementary School on Snapper Hill, Monrovia, before proceeding to Booker Washington Institute, where he graduated with a diploma in agriculture in 1959.
Best's academic pursuits took him to Cuttington University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in English and political science in 1963. During his time at Cuttington, he established the Cuttington Review, a literary magazine. Following his graduation, he was appointed Assistant to the Dean of Liberal Arts at the University of Liberia. Between 1963 and 1965, he worked as a journalist at the Press and Publications Bureau for the Liberian government.
In 1967, Best received a Master's in Comparative Journalism from the Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University, New York, after studying journalism at the Institut für Publizistik in Berlin, West Germany. This educational background laid the foundation for his career as a seasoned journalist and editor.
In February 1981, Best, along with his wife, founded the Daily Observer, marking a significant shift in Liberia's media landscape. As the country's first independent daily newspaper, the Daily Observer offered an alternative perspective, often critical of the government, earning Best and his publication acclaim and criticism alike.
Throughout his career, Best has been recognized for his contributions to journalism and his commitment to promoting free press and expression. His unwavering dedication to objective reporting has earned him respect and admiration from his peers and the wider public.
The Daily Observer, founded by Best, has played a pivotal role in shaping Liberia's media landscape, influencing public opinion, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance. Best's pioneering work has inspired a generation of Liberian journalists, fostering a culture of independent journalism and critical thinking.
Kenneth Best's remarkable career serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to journalism and free expression. His legacy extends beyond Liberia, as his contributions to the development of independent media have had far-reaching implications for the African continent as a whole.
87 Years Old
The first female head of state in Africa, she led Liberia through a period of reconstruction and reconciliation, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and women's rights.
78 Years Old
Former warlord who led Liberia through a brutal civil war and was later convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity. He's infamous for his role in fueling regional instability and human rights abuses.
59 Years Old
A Liberian football legend who won the Ballon d'Or and later became the President of Liberia, known for his impressive football skills and unexpected political career.
90 Years Old
The President of Gabon from 1967 to 2009, who ruled with an iron fist, suppressing opposition and amassing vast wealth, while maintaining close ties with French leaders. He's infamous for his corrupt and authoritarian regime.
84 Years Old
African strongman who ruled Equatorial Guinea with an iron fist for over 40 years, accused of human rights abuses and corruption.
