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By Gideon Mutembei
Nairobi, Kenya: The Media Council of Kenya(MCK) conducted a comprehensive survey across the country to evaluate the media environment. The survey gathered perspectives from journalists and media practitioners to shape policy, training, and advocacy efforts. The presence of media outlets across Kenya’s 47 counties is essential for ensuring universal access to information through both traditional and digital platforms. This media significance is reinforced by the growing number of media entities, with the Communications Authority of Kenya noting dynamic growth in the radio sector, featuring over 250 stations broadcasting in various vernacular and local languages.
The survey cited employment in the media industry as very fragile, with 80 percent of freelancers working without formal contracts with any media outlet, while 75 percent of those working in media houses have written contracts with varying durations of one to two years. Short-term contracts of three to six months each account for seven percent. The survey also found that only 29 percent hold permanent positions, while the remaining 71 percent are employed on a temporary basis. Additionally, 52 percent of the workforce lacks medical coverage.
On safety and the protection of press freedom, the report highlights a lack of protective gear, denial of access, threats, physical attacks, destruction of equipment, psychological harassment, and other challenges as key factors contributing to an unsafe environment for media practitioners in Kenya. Those interviewed cited arrests, legal prosecution, phone tapping, and unjustified dismissals as significant concerns. Safety concerns limit press freedom among journalists, with most media houses only moderately committed to promoting the safety of journalists on duty, according to the report.
The launch event at a city hotel was attended by various media representatives, including National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga (representing the Inspector General), Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary Eric Oduor, Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Koome, and Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya Quinter Mbori, among others.
Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo called on security agencies to recognize the crucial role of the media in society. He noted that despite many government promises to uphold the rule of law and respect the media, this has not been realized, accusing authorities of saying one thing and doing the opposite—a situation he described as difficult to reconcile.
The CEO also mentioned the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), which he referred to as technologically facilitated journalism. He stated that the main focus at this moment is ensuring media ethics in AI usage. He cautioned the media fraternity not to forget the universal principle of journalism: to seek truthful information and publish it. He concluded by calling on all media houses and practitioners to unite in ending what he termed “cannibalism” within the system to promote the dignity of the media.
Financial limitations are another barrier to journalists adhering to ethical codes, with 35 percent of respondents stating that financial constraints would not affect their ability to follow the code of conduct. However, low salaries, delayed and irregular payments, non-payment, and excessive deductions negatively impact journalists’ morale while on duty. These financial constraints are not only felt by media workers but also stem from media houses, which mostly rely on advertising as their sole revenue source, contributing to low income.
To overcome these challenges, the report recommends that media houses increase the proportion of long-term contracts to promote job security and retain skilled workers, enhancing content quality through continuity and deeper institutional knowledge. Media employers were also advised to explore strategies to increase permanent employment opportunities, which could lead to better welfare benefits. The government and media outlets should enhance their commitment to journalists’ safety by implementing stronger safety protocols, providing adequate protective gear, and offering training on risk assessment and digital cybersecurity.
A stronger focus on journalists’ well-being could improve both reporting quality and staff security. The Media Council should continue enforcement through regular monitoring of media outlets, issuing sanctions for violations, while incentivizing adherence through awards. To uphold ethical journalism, media outlets must secure adequate funding and resources to enable journalists to work without financial pressure. This can be achieved by revitalizing business models to reflect the changing media landscape, including platform convergence and diversified revenue sourcing. The report further recommends that media outlets diversify revenue streams to reduce over-reliance on advertising and ensure financial stability.
Lastly, financial literacy for journalists is crucial. This would enable them to better plan and utilize limited resources effectively. The MCK should develop tailored training modules and integrate such sensitization into its programs. Consequently, the Media Council of Kenya, in partnership with the Kenya Editors Guild, Kenya Union of Journalists, and other stakeholders, must leverage these findings to push for policy reforms, mandate AI-focused training, and promote sustainable funding models.
