Kenya is set to have eight new television stations following applications lodged with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
In Gazette Notice No. 10603, under the Kenya Information and Communications Act (Cap. 411A), new entrants are seeking licenses to operate commercial free-to-air television services.
“Notice is given that the following applicants have, pursuant to the provisions of the Kenya Information and Communications Act Cap. 411A, made applications to the Communications Authority of Kenya for grant of the licenses,” part of the Gazette notice read.
TV stations applying for the commercial free-to-air television services include firms based in Nairobi, Liten, Kajiado, Madaraka and Kisumu.
In addition, the Communications Authority of Kenya also received a renewal application from GOTV Kenya Limited, a subscription broadcasting service provider.
The Communications Authority also received an application from the Excellent Errands Supplies & for licensing as a National Postal/Courier Operator.
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TV Stations Applying for Commercial Free-to-Air Television licenses
- Talizey Media Limited, Nairobi
- City of Wonders Limited, Litein, Kericho County
- Tehiz Company Limited, Kajiado
- Khalid TV and Radio Station Limited, Nairobi
- Grace Grid Ventures Limited, Nairobi
- Picha Media Limited, Madaraka, Nairobi
- Prince Amani Media Limited, Nairobi
- Gavriel Consultants Limited, Kisumu
Communications Authority of Kenya Licensing Process
Under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, the licensing of new broadcasters follows a structured path which begins with the interested Companies submitting applications to the Communications Authority.
During the application, the Companies must provide the Communications Authority with their corporate information, technical proposals, and financial capacity.
Upon receiving the application, the CA publishes the applications in the Kenya Gazette not only for formality but also as a legal requirement.
According to the CA, publication of the applications in the Kenya Gazette informs the public and invites comments or objections.
In addition, the publication allows stakeholders to scrutinize the applicants and enables policymakers to object if there is any potential threat arising from the licensing.
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After publication, the Authority evaluates each application made by the interested firms against established criteria.
Established criteria include technical standards, the financial viability of the applicant, and adherence to broadcasting codes according to the Kenya Information and Communications Act.
In addition, broadcasting stations must also demonstrate compliance with local content obligations and governance structures that prevent monopolistic control.
The Authority then grants licenses to applicants who meet all the requirements as directed in the Act.
As the Authority grants the licenses, the applying firms are bound by the obligations of the licensed broadcasters under the Act.
In addition, the licensed operators are further required to meet ongoing obligations, including payment of regulatory fees, submission of periodic reports, and adherence to programming codes.
Further, the Authority urges the companies to ensure that the licenses are renewed upon expiry of the validity period.
During the license renewal process, the CA must assess the licensed operators to establish the continued compliance of the company.
However, the Authority retains the power to suspend or revoke licenses for non-compliance, thereby safeguarding the public interest.
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