The Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation (CII), chaired by Hon. John Kiarie, on Tuesday held a high-level consultative meeting with the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) at Parliament Buildings to discuss the future of the country’s media sector.
The meeting centered on the newly revised Code of Conduct for Media Practice (2025), the status of media regulation, and the operationalisation of media hubs across Kenya.
MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo reported that six media hubs are already operational in Busia, Kisii, Kisumu, Mombasa, Malindi, and Eldoret, providing accredited journalists, student reporters, and independent creators with access to high-speed internet, production studios, editing suites, and advanced multimedia software.
Two additional hubs in Meru and Nakuru are nearing completion, a move expected to enhance access to digital content creation facilities nationwide.
However, Omwoyo warned that Kenya’s media industry faces severe financial distress, with almost 90 percent of outlets at risk of shutting down due to difficulties meeting salary obligations, license fees, and other operational costs.
Legislators expressed concern that such closures could weaken reliable information flow and fuel misinformation.
To counter this, MPs urged media houses to adopt digital-first strategies and avoid heavy investment in outdated technologies. The MCK also announced plans to roll out an AI-powered monitoring system to track narratives and ensure regulatory compliance in real time.
Hon. Kiarie stressed the need to strike a balance between media freedom and public protection against disinformation.
“The narratives shaping our world today are increasingly dictated by algorithms and platforms outside traditional newsrooms. Parliament wants to ensure Kenyans are protected from misinformation while preserving a free and responsible press,” he said.
The Committee further resolved to partner with the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Training (CPST) to equip legislators with media literacy skills ahead of the next election cycle, ensuring informed engagement with the evolving media environment.
Written By Rodney Mbua
