SECTOR 3

The Kenya Communications (Broadcasting) Regulations 200919 in article 6 on
obligations relating to broadcasting services, provides that CCK shall (1) (a)
ensure that broadcasting services reflect the national identity, needs and aspirations
of Kenyans; (c) develop a frequency plan which sets out how the frequencies
available for broadcasting services in Kenya will be shared equitably and in the
public interest among various tiers of broadcasting, and (d) ensure that every
applicant secures relevant permission or entered into agreements or arrangements
necessary for the operation of the broadcasting service.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country minimally meets aspects of the indicator.

3

Country meets many aspects of indicator but
progress may be too recent to judge.

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator.

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator and has
been doing so over time.

Average score: 			

2.1 (2005=1.7; 2007=1.6)

3.4
The state/public broadcaster is accountable to
the public through a board representative of society
at large and selected in an independent, open and
transparent manner.
Analysis
In its long existence, the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation has suffered from
ambivalence in definition, outlook and functions. It has invariably acted as a public
broadcaster, state broadcaster and a public service. Indeed, it has carried out these
roles at various times at the behest of the political regime. Current studies show
that there are reforms underway to clearly define its role and future direction.
KBC is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister for Information
and Communication. The chairman of the Board is appointed by the President20.
The board consists of the chairman, the managing director, who is appointed by
the Minister, the Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries of Information and
Communication as well as Finance and Office of the President. The rest of the
19 The regulations became law in January 2010, after Media Barometer 2009 had taken place
20 The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation Act chapter

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER KENYA 2009

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Select target paragraph3