The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has reminded media owners of their obligation to prioritise journalists and media practitioners in their institutional framework.
MCK Kisumu Regional Coordinator Evans Teddy told media owners in Bungoma that survival of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the media sector requires sound management, including recruitment and retention of skilled staff.
“Media owners should reward their staff through proper renumeration, prompt payment and by providing a conducive working environment to promote a performance-driven culture and ensure business sustainability”, he said.
He further stated that in order to align with the dynamism of the media sector and stay relevant in business, media houses need to rethink their strategy and explore alternative sources of revenue.
“Media houses can explore alternative sources of revenue by embracing diverse revenue streams and digital transformation strategies”, said Mr Teddy.
He emphasised the importance of media houses adopting business models that promote collegiality, enhance customer experience, foster data-driven decision making, and stimulate innovation to boost business growth.
MCK Supervisor, Research and Media Monitoring Abraham Kisang said research in business development is important to understand the demand and supply market so as to create solutions targeting audiences.
“Organisations that invest in research are able to understand the demand and supply market and create solutions and programs that target audiences' demands and reduce exigencies”, he noted.
Tandao TV CEO Robert Wanyonyi applauded the Council for remaining steadfast in assisting media houses to navigate the dynamic environment.
“We call upon the Council to assist in navigating some of the operational hurdles and duplication of charges in the media sector”, said Mr Wanyonyi.
The meeting brought together media directors, media owners and station managers from Sasa Radio, Magharibi TV, West FM, West TV, Mumbo FM, Nyota FM, TK Radio, Sema Radio, Khendo FM, Radio Mambo, Tandao TV, Tandaza Radio and Balozi TV.