The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kenya’s leading editors have warned that the country’s media landscape is under serious pressure, with financial strain and increasing attacks on journalists posing major risks to press freedom ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at the 8th Annual Editors Convention in Kilifi, Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) President Zubeidah Kananu said economic hardships — rather than direct censorship — now represent the biggest danger to journalism.
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Kananu noted that the sector is “on the brink,” citing delayed government advertising payments, shrinking newsroom resources, Big Tech disruption, and growing job insecurity.
She urged government intervention to safeguard journalists and called for reforms that strengthen independent reporting as the election period nears.
Over 20 journalists were injured during the 2024–2025 Gen Z protests.
Kananu proposed a multi-agency rapid-response mechanism involving the Interior Ministry, Media Council of Kenya, IPOA, ODPP, and the Kenya Media Sector Working Group.
To support struggling newsrooms, KEG recommended measures such as clearing pending government advertising bills and limiting political interference.
She also underscored the importance of timely staff payments and prioritising mental health support for journalists.
ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said the government is reviewing public advertising structures, settling outstanding debts owed to media outlets, and implementing the new National Communication Policy (2025–2028) to promote fairness, innovation, and growth in the sector.
