Kerugoya: The government is committed to transforming Kenya’s media sector through comprehensive reforms, sustained investment in county-level journalism, and initiatives designed to ensure long-term sustainability for media practitioners across the country. Secretary of Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Temesi Mukani, emphasized that the policy push aims to modernize legislation, strengthen institutional frameworks, and provide practical support for journalists operating at both national and grassroots levels.
According to Kenya News Agency, Temesi noted that the reforms are a critical step in enhancing democracy and civic engagement and an enabler of the free flow of information in the country. The information secretary was speaking in Kerugoya town when he presided over the launch of an association for women working in the media based in Kirinyaga County. He emphasized that the media sector remains a key pillar of national development and a vital tool for holding governments accountable, shaping public opinion, and fostering an informed citizenry.
Mr. Temesi reiterated that journalists working in rural counties often face unique challenges, including limited access to resources, exposure, and training opportunities, which constrain their ability to report effectively. The government reform agenda aims to ensure Kenyan journalists are not left behind in the rapidly evolving media landscape. Additionally, the government will convene a national conference on media sustainability, bringing together broadcasters, print and digital publishers, content creators, policymakers, civil society experts, and academia for robust deliberations on the challenges facing the sector.
Temesi said that the conference will focus on identifying strategies to strengthen journalism professionally and financially while exploring opportunities for collaboration among media houses, both locally and internationally. The central pillar of the government’s strategy is the revitalization of the Kenya News Agency (KNA), which Temesi described as the backbone of government communication. He acknowledged that the agency’s operations have been limited by chronic understaffing, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate digital tools.
Mr. Temesi further said envisaged reforms will also incorporate the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), which he described as a ‘sleeping giant’ with untapped potential. Guided by the State-Owned Enterprises Law, the government plans to restructure KBC into two distinct yet complementary arms: a public broadcasting division funded by the government and a commercial division designed to generate revenue.
In line with the government’s youth empowerment agenda, the ministry plans to expand the Studio Mashinani program across counties. Temesi said the initiative is designed to give young creatives access to professional production studios, technical training, mentorship, and guidance in digital content creation. He also acknowledged the growing threat of online bullying, cyber harassment, and digital misinformation targeting journalists and citizens alike.
Ms. Bancy Lole, the chairperson of the newly launched Kirinyaga Media Queens Association, expressed gratitude to the Information, Communications, and Digital Economy Ministry for its continued support to journalists, especially women working in rural regions. She noted that women journalists often face challenges unique to their gender, ranging from safety concerns to limited upward mobility. The Association will focus on training, mentorship programs, charity initiatives, and partnerships with both the National and County governments to improve the welfare of its members.
