SECTOR 2 Subsequently national newspapers have seen their circulation drop over the years from figures of 800 000 a few years ago to a joint circulation of all dailies currently put at between 350,000 and 500,000. But county newspapers, which are able to reach some very remote parts of the country, appear to be growing in circulation and taking up some of the lost space in the newspaper industry. National papers now appear compelled to include more local or county content to keep their competitive edge. Television Kenya has about 20 television stations even though only five are considered serious, Television attracts large audiences partly because it is free and because popular entertainment centres such as restaurants, cafes and bars have put up flat screen television sets to attract more customers. At 7pm every day these social venues are packed to the brim as most people flock there to catch the evening’s prime time news bulletin. Clients even know which bar, restaurant or cafe offers the channel of their choice. Generally, people tend to watch TV news along ethnical and political lines, especially since the post-election violence ended in 2008. “People tend to watch TV channels that reflect their political views.” Television is a popular medium and signals get to even the most remote parts of the country thanks to satellite dishes and decoders that are able to capture freeto-air broadcasts. Radio Radio remains the most widely available and accessible source of news and information for the vast majority of Kenyans. There has also been an increase in radio stations since 2009 to about 103. About 300 frequencies and licenses have been issued even though most are not being exploited. The audiovisual media’s reach in general has been helped by a deliberate effort by the authorities to electrify rural areas. Internet Whether it is at cybercafés, at the work place, at home or on handheld devices, internet is also gaining ground as a source of information, especially in urban areas. Many people get their internet through wireless external modems, even though it remains expensive at KSh3000 (about US$37.5) monthly for unlimited access. But competition is helping to push down prices. “People change service providers everyday because of better deals.” As a result, younger people increasingly access the internet on their phones. To the larger public, cybercafés remain the most available and affordable point of access for about KSh10 per hour (about US$0.125). AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER KENYA 2012 29