Radio Bosses Make 5 Pleas To Govt

The Media Owners Association (MOA) on Tuesday, February 13 appealed to President William Ruto's administration to support sustainability amongst Kenyan radio stations which have been encountering financial difficulties, putting them at risk of shutting down.

Speaking in Kisii County as the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) joined the country and the world in marking World Radio Day, MOA chairperson Agnes Kalekye remarked that sustaining radio operations requires investment and support to keep up with the paradigm shift brought about by the digital environment.

"I call upon the Government to support radio sustainability, in Kenya. Radio Stations, both big and small, play an important role, in providing local news, promoting cultural diversity and fostering a sense of community.

"They serve as a platform for dialogue, sharing stories, and connecting people from all walks of life," she defended the power of radio stations.

Media Owners Association Chairperson Agnes Kalekye speaking during the celebration of World Radio Day 2024 on February 13, 2024. /MEDIA COUNCIL OF KENYA

She called on the government to allocate resources towards radio's growth and development, providing options to which the support can be achieved.

They include providing funding opportunities, reducing regulatory burdens, working with the industry to develop spectrum management strategies that meet the needs of broadcasters, providing tax incentives to encourage investment in the industry and creating a favourable business environment.

Kalekye also lauded veteran journalists who dedicated themselves to making radio what it is today.

The MOA chairperson further called on the government to collaborate with media leadership, broadcasters and other stakeholders to address the changing needs and challenges of the radio industry.

By working together, she said, the companies would develop innovative strategies to adapt to the evolving media landscape and ensure that radio remains a vibrant and relevant medium for generations to come.

"We call upon the government to prioritize educational programs, in our radio stations, that promote critical thinking, digital skills, and media literacy, enabling our citizens to navigate the vast array of information available and make informed decisions," she continued.

On his part, MCK Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Omwoyo indicated that despite the medium having a powerful influence in agenda setting, it is still undermined by some critical issues ranging from sustainability and ethics. 

At the core of the challenges, is the issue of ethics which he lamented was rampant, especially in community radio stations whereby professionalism has been compromised due to varied factors.

Omwoyo asked different stakeholders to enhance cooperation with other players in the industry and also advocated for innovation to meet the current listeners' demands.

"Sustainability challenges, particularly for community radio stations, and lately some major media organisations, has necessitated innovation. To ensure the retention of audience interest, the evolving media landscape must constantly adapt to the changing times," Omwoyo stated. 

"Harnessing innovations such as AI-powered content personalisation and machine learning can ensure listeners receive content relevant to their interests, while interactive experiences can foster deeper engagement."

Despite the challenges, Omwoyo expressed satisfaction with how radio has evolved to remain a powerful force in the country, commending radio stations for embracing innovation, adapting and evolving to maintain their relevance during the rise of digital media.

"The proliferation of FM and community stations catering to diverse needs reflects this adaptability. Technology has opened doors for online streaming, podcasts and social media integration," Omwoyo observed.

"Online streaming expanded radio’s accessibility, connecting Kenyans in the diaspora and remote areas. Podcasts have created room for niche content creation, catering to specialised interests while social media integration has proven fundamental in fostering audience engagement and community building."