Kenya’s media community united on February 13 to commemorate World Radio Day 2024, marking a century since radios became a fixture on Africa’s airwaves.

The celebration took place in Kisii County, establishing a regional media hub, with the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) at the forefront.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo emphasized the significance of preserving the integrity of radio, a trusted source of accurate information for many Kenyans.

He encouraged journalists to uphold professionalism in delivering news, especially in an era influenced by technological advancements.

“While you take anything from the internet or anywhere else if you go to a reputable radio station or radio channel with professional journalistic work, you can get accurate and verified information,” he said.

Reflecting on the changing media landscape in Kenya, Omwoyo acknowledged the increasing number of universities offering media courses and the accessibility of information through expanded airwaves.

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However, he emphasized the need for a parallel focus on enhancing the quality of content and developing skilled radio personalities.

“As we sit here to celebrate, we reflect about how the airwaves have been opened, how we have access to information, and how we have more and more universities offering training,” he said.

“As we celebrate the quantity, what have we done to the quality? The more radios we have, the more listeners we have; we should also get finer radio personalities.”

Veteran Media Personality Fred Machoka Speaks

During the celebration, veteran media personality Fred Machoka addressed concerns about the encroachment of celebrities into the radio space, asserting that comedians have been part of the radio landscape for decades.

“I hear people saying that comedians are coming to radio and usurping the role of broadcasters. I found comedians on the radio and have been on the radio for the last 47 years,” said Machoka.

Machoka paid tribute to iconic figures like Mzee Pembe and Mzee Ojwang, underscoring the evolution of radio with the emergence of entertainers such as Mwala, Ridiculous, Churchill, and Eric Omondi.

He also countered the notion that the influx of comedians signals the decline of professional broadcasters, emphasizing the coexistence of both elements in the radio space.

“This is not something that dropped; it has always been there. They have augmented this space to entertain,” he stated.

He further highlighted the enduring legacy of radio personalities and their role in providing entertainment and information.

Celebrating Radio Achievements

The media council’s efforts in creating an enabling environment for journalists in rural areas were also recognized during the event.

The celebration underscored the historical importance of radio and the need for continuous improvement and professionalism in the dynamic media landscape.

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“As we celebrate radio achievements it is important to acknowledge the challenges. In the face of our economic situation, it is important to embrace technology.

“We laud veteran journalists who have dedicated themselves towards making radio what it is today,” said Agnes Kalekye, Media Owners Association Chairperson.

As the media community marked a century of radio in Kenya, the event served as a platform for reflection, acknowledging achievements, addressing challenges, and envisioning a future where radio continues to play a vital role in informing and entertaining the public.