The effect of media policy and regulations on the practice of

journalism in Kenya
A RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF
THEREQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELORS DEGREE IN
JOURNALISM IN THE FACULTY OF MEDIA AND
COMMUNICATION,MULTIMEDIA UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

TEDDY KIPCHIRCHIR
8/2018 Research Project
LETINGMCS-234-099/2015
DECLARATION
This research project is my original work and has not been presented for a Degree award to any

other university. No part of this research project may be reproduced without the prior written

permission of the author and/or Multimedia University of Kenya.

Signature _______________ Date _______________

TEDDY KIPCHIRCHIR LETING

MCS-234-099/2015

This research project has been submitted for examination with my approval as the university

Supervisor.

Signature _______________ Date _______________

SYLVIA MASESE

Lecturer, Faculty of Media and Communication

Multimedia University of Kenya

DEDICATION
This research project is dedicated to my family for their encouragement, support and

understanding my absence at the time of the research.

For this I say thank you all and God bless.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I acknowledge with appreciation the support and guidance received from my supervisor Sylvia

Masese. This project would not have been perfect without your guidance.

To my family, I am very grateful for your absolute and continued support.

To all my colleagues and friends, I wish to extend my appreciation to you all.

God Bless you all.

List of abbreviations and acronyms.
BCAC- Broadcasting Content Advisory Authority

CAK- Communications Authority of Kenya

CC- Complaints Commission

CCK Communications Commission of Kenya

KICA- 2013 Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Act, 2013

KICA- Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998

MCA- Media Council Act 2013

MCK- Media Council of Kenya

MOA- Media Owners Associations

NMG- Nation Media Group

RMS- Royal Media Services

RWB- Reporters without Borders

SG- Standard Group

Table of Contents
DECLARATION....................................................................................................10
DEDICATION ........................................................................................................11
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ..................................................................................12
List of abbreviations and acronyms. ....................................................................13
ABSTRACT .............................................................................................................................. 16
CHAPTER ONE ....................................................................................................19
INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 19
1.1 Background of Study..................................................................................................... 19
1.2 Statement of the problem .............................................................................................. 20
1.3 Purpose of the Study ..................................................................................................... 22
1.4 Research objectives ....................................................................................................... 22
1.5 Research questions ........................................................................................................ 23
1.6 Scope of the study ......................................................................................................... 23
1.7 Significance of the study ............................................................................................... 23
1.8 Limitations of the study ................................................................................................ 24
1.9 Assumption of the study................................................................................................ 24
CHAPTER TWO ...................................................................................................25
LITERATURE REVIEW .......................................................................................................... 25
INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................... 25
2.1 Institutional framework in Kenya ....................................................................................... 28
CHAPTER THREE ...............................................................................................33
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURE ........................................................... 33
3.0 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 33
3.1 Research Design ............................................................................................................. 33
3.2 Study Area ...................................................................................................................... 33
3.3 Study Population ............................................................................................................ 33
3.4 Population Sample.......................................................................................................... 34
3.5 Sampling Techniques and Sampling Size ...................................................................... 34
3.6 Instruments for Data Collection ..................................................................................... 34
3.7 Validation of the Questionnaire ..................................................................................... 35
 3.8 Data Collection Methods ................................................................................................ 35
3.9 Data Analysis ................................................................................................................. 35
3.10 Time Schedule ................................................................................................................ 35
3.11 Budget ............................................................................................................................ 37
CHAPTER FOUR ..................................................................................................39
Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation of Data ..................................................................... 39
4.0 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 39
4.1 Characteristics of the Respondents 4.1.1 Gender .......................................................... 39
4.2 Media Policies and Regulation....................................................................................... 41
4.3 Media and the Constitution ............................................................................................ 44
4.4 Challenges of Journalists................................................................................................ 47
CHAPTER FIVE....................................................................................................52
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ........................................................................ 52
5.1 CONCLUSION .............................................................................................................. 52
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................... 53
References................................................................................................................54
APPENDICES ........................................................................................................57
Appendix A ............................................................................................................................... 57
Appendix B ............................................................................................................................... 58
Appendix C ............................................................................................................................... 60
ABSTRACT
The freedom of the press as legislatively interpreted is an instrument of legal obligation on

human rights involving the press and its individuals; the journalists. Under the 2010 constitution

of Kenya, Article 34(5) provides for the freedom of the media and states that:

Parliament shall enact legislation that provides for the establishment of a body, which shall— a)

Be independent of control by government, political interests or commercial interests; b) Reflect

the interests of all sections of the society; and c) Set media standards and regulate and monitor

compliance with those standards.

The body under which these regulations are set is the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) which

further defines the Act to cover Media enterprises; Journalists; Media practitioners; Foreign

journalist accredited by the Media Council of Kenya; and Consumers of media services.

However, the act does not seem to play as detailed in the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Act of

2013. In respect with the press, the law is supposed to create rights and duties of citizens, the

press and the state; to limits boundaries for the exercise of freedoms; and to create a framework

for control and regulation of the press and its activities.

With the governing regulations imposed on the press, the policy has put limits to bar Article 34

of the constitution from being implemented. Its involvement has created a control system which

snatches the power of this article and declares to limit access to information, especially from

official governmental sources; placing limits on freedom to disseminate information;

emphasizing regulation and control of the form of dissemination; and denial to prior access to

information material by the state or its agents.

According to the regulations governing the freedom of the press, the law has the responsibility of

ensuring accurate information and clean entertainment and playing a political role of ensuring

that activities of the press conform to what the state considers desirable.

To the expectation of the general public, the right to freedom of expression exercised on, media

enterprises, journalists, media practitioners, foreign journalists and consumers of media services

shall reflect the interests of all sections of society, be accurate and fair; be accountable and

transparent; respect the personal dignity and privacy of others; demonstrate professionalism and

respect for the rights of others; and be guided by the national values and principles of governance

set out under Article 10 (2) on National Values and principles of governance, of the Constitution

which states: The national values and principles of governance include—(a) patriotism, national

unity, sharing and devolution of power, the rule of law, democracy and participation of the

people; (b) human dignity, equity, social justice, inclusiveness, equality, human rights, non-

discrimination and protection of the marginalized; (c) good governance, integrity, transparency

and accountability; and (d) sustainable development.

This study shows why the regulations set for Kenyan media are however not favorable and seek

to mute the voices of able journalists who are ready to reveal the stench but are limited by the

policies in place. Despite the Code of conduct for the practice of journalism, journalists still do

not enjoy the freedom of the media and feel bound from reporting what the public wants to

listen.

The council has diverted and failed to: promote and protect the freedom and independence of the

media, prescribe standards of journalists, media practitioners and media enterprises, ensure the

protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the performance of their duties, promote

and enhance ethical and professional standards amongst journalists and media enterprises, advise
the government or the relevant regulatory authority on matters relating to professional, education

and the training of journalists and other media practitioners, develop and regulate ethical and

disciplinary standards for journalists, media practitioners and media enterprises, establish media

standards and regulate and monitor compliance with the media standards and to facilitate

resolution of disputes between the government and the media and between the public and the

media and intra media.

The study further suggests measures through which the government, through the Media Council

of Kenya (MCK), the Communication Authority of Kenya (CAK) the Kenya Union of

Journalists (KUJ), Media Owners Association (MOA), Kenya Editors’ Guild, Kenya

Correspondents Association, Public Relations Society of Kenya, the Ministry of Information,

Communications and Technology, Kenya News Agency (KNA) and the Law Society of Kenya

(LSK), who are responsible for media policies and regulations, can take to improve the media

standards and encourage private journalism and freelancing as part of the media in Kenya.

The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness, the implementation and the relevance

of the media policies and regulations in the practice of journalism in Kenya.

The research design employed in this study was a descriptive cross sectional survey design. The

target population of this study was all the four Media Houses in Kenya (Nation Media Group

(NMG), The Standard Group, Radio Africa and Media MAX) and the Journalists working for

them. The study used interview guides, questionnaires and systematic observations for data

collection. The study used content analysis for data presentation.

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
This chapter seeks to outline the: background of study, concept of performance, research

problem, research objective, and the significance and value of study.

Media policies and regulations in this study is explained as the rules and measures put in place

by the government, through certain bodies as the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), with the aim

of monitoring the practices of journalists, and the content shared to the general public.

The General Public is then defined as the audience, without the limitation of age, and who are

the consumers of the media contents.

1.1 Background of Study

This research project centers around two theories of communication; the magic bullet theory

and Agenda setting theory (Maxwell McCombs and Donald L. Shaw) which explains how the

media influences and affects the order of presentation in news reports, events and issues in the

public mind. These theories explain the interest that the government may use to choose what gets

to the audiences and restricts, through censorship and set regulations, what media industries

ought to cover and what not ought to be covered.

This study describes and analyses the laws that affect the mass media in Kenya keeping in mind

regulatory bodies and laws such as the government through the ministry of Information and

technology, the media act of 2013, the Association of media women in Kenya, the Code of

Conduct for the practice of Journalism, Article 19 and the Kenya Information and

Communication Act, 2013. This is important due to the reasons as: information on the role of

law in mass media regulation tends to be scarce and scattered and usually unavailable to those

who need it, that is, mass media professionals and, press freedom as an important human right,

the qualification of which should be restricted to the barest essentials (Cripps, Yvonne (1984)).
In this research, a discussion of the role of law in mass media regulation is a useful contribution

to an important debate on constitutional rights in a democratic society with freedom of the media

and access to information.

However, it is submitted that four reasons have been used to justify and approve the introduction

of laws which curtail press freedom (Finance (1989). 'Press in Kenya', June). These reasons

include:

(I) The interests of the state, especially its security;

(ii) The interests of the society, especially public health and morals;

(iii) The interests of justice; and

(iv) The interests of the individual, especially on privacy.

Despite these rules, media policies still fail to provide what is required of journalists and bars

them from accessing and implementing some of this advantages and privileges. The constitution

which mandates their freedom of the press and the media has been subdued by the governing

bodies which have formulated laws that undermine the practice of journalism in Kenya.

In this study, this laws are highlighted in line with the constitution and the code of ethics for

journalism to verify the impossibility of media freedom awareness and exhibition.

1.2 Statement of the problem

“Even if all the physical barriers to communication were known and removed, there would remain

many physical barriers to the free flow of ideas.” (Hyman & Sheatsley, 1947) Some of the reasons

why the media performance is derailing because of the policies that have not been amended

include:
 1. Insufficient inputs

2. Improper segmentation of audience policies

3. Inappropriate media or platforms

4. Failure to maintain momentum

5. Rejection of ideas by the audiences (Thomson, 2016)

All the above can be avoided since the media needs to implement them in their policy reforms. It

is evident that Kenyan media is in jeopardy due to insufficient inputs. Should enough training be

involved in selecting trained and qualified journalists, certainly, the content presented will be

positively consumed and appreciated.

The media keeps changing every time with technology and it is well known that every day comes

with new innovations. The media adapts these changes and need an update whenever they are

released to the public. Working on regulations that cover old-generated policies is devastating and

evades real time incidents from being covered.

To ensure momentum, there is lack of support from government created media entities. The

function of these bodies are to monitor and support Bills which favor the practice and

performance of journalists and not set up rules which undermine their freedom. Constitutionally,

Chapter 34(5) of the 2010 constitution of Kenya guarantees the freedom of the media and states:

Parliament shall enact legislation that provides for the establishment of a body, which shall—

(a) be independent of control by government, political interests or commercial interests;

(b) reflect the interests of all sections of the society; and

(c) set media standards and regulate and monitor compliance with those standards.
Should this article be considered, the bodies created by the parliament will be in full mandate to

diligently exercise their duties without interference by the national government and other bodies

that may want to jeopardize the practice of the media.

1.3 Purpose of the Study

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of media policies and regulations in the practice of

journalism in Kenya and how these policies can be regulated to favor the media personalities, the

investors, the owners and the audience in content coverage and distribution.

1.4 Research objectives

1.4.1 General research objective

To determine the effectiveness and relevance in the implementation of media policies and

regulations in the practice of journalists in Kenya.

1.4.2 Specific objectives

1. To determine whether the policy promotes the existence of free and pluralistic media which

reflects on diversity of ideas and opinions

2. To determine whether the media regulations sustain an atmosphere free from censorship

and arbitrary controls on the flow of information

3. To determine whether the media policies ensure that the means of communication are used

for the benefit of all Kenyans

1.5 Research questions
Specific questions that the study answers include:

1. Which policies provided by the media act of 2013 promotes existence of free and pluralistic

media that reflects on diversity of ideas and opinions?

2. Does the media experience blockage on content coverage on limitation of what should be

shared publicly, and if so, what are the policies responsible for censorship and flow of

information?

3. Which are the channels through which the media reach their target audiences and how do

these audiences benefit from these means?

1.6 Scope of the study

Generally, the focus of the study is directed towards pointing out loopholes that can be sealed for

the betterment and appropriate communication by journalists in attaining the core objectives of the

media policies and regulations in Kenya. The study attempts to determine its efficiency through

analyzing how the Kenyan Media is reporting on News in Kenya and beyond its boundaries and

how International Media could be related to improve the way local media is attributed at home.

1.7 Significance of the study

The findings of this study redound to the benefit of the society considering the fact that Media

Policies have a significant impact to the journalists, the media houses and the consumers of media

content in Kenya. The greater demand of media regulation and content censorship is a clear

indication that media policies and regulations contribute in providing appropriate information

through appropriate channels to the audience, without necessarily being hindered to do so by

external bodies that are not recognized by the body responsible for the freedom of the press. All

objectives considered, the benefits cut across, from the journalists, through their audiences, to the

media houses and the government at large.

1.8 Limitations of the study
The liberal or pluralist discourse locates the audience within the development of Western

industrialized society, arguing that the media must reach the citizens – in their role as audiences –

if they are to gain the information, understanding and shared cultural values required to sustain the

informed consent that underpins democratic governance. Yet within this democratic view of

audiences lie also the seeds of doubt – what happens when audiences do not act in a selective or

rational manner, or when the media don’t provide fair or balanced information? (Media audiences,

interpreters, users, in: Gillespie, M, Media Audiences, 2. Maidenhead, UK: Open University

Press, 2005, pp. 9-50.)

1.9 Assumption of the study

Kenyan Media is one of mere ‘bandwagonism’ informed by the western ‘modernity’ and

‘civilization’ ( https://doi.org/10.1177/1748048509339792 ). 60 percent of the audience would

dismiss the belief that African Journalism would regain its ground and act as an institution by its

own even without the support of the bodies that regulate its performance and functionality. They

believe that what African Media is doing is influenced by the practices and the demands of the

western states, which demand that policies and regulations be set to ensure content coverage is

maintained to the favor of iconic personalities within a set of government, and that without their

support, nothing worth covering may be published or released to the audiences hence crippling

every aspect of communication within a certain system.

CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
INTRODUCTION
The chapter presents the related literature based on the research topic and studies after thorough

and in-depth research conducted by other scholars. It presents the theoretical framework to fully

understand the research that has been done and lastly, the definition of terms for better

comprehension of the study. The review basically was by use of various theoretical works,

books, discussions from journals and articles

Regulation of the media normally takes place within a broader framework of principle and

policies. Media refers to the complex of socio –political-philosophical principles which organize

ideas about the relationship between media and the society. This study was based on normative

theory which is concerned with what the media ought to be doing in society rather than what

they actually do.

According to Siebert et al (1956) in their book Four Theories of the press, they, the state takes on

the form and coloration of the social and political structures within which it operates. The press

and other media, in their view, will reflect the basis beliefs and assumptions that the society

holds. In western liberal tradition, this refers to matters such as freedom, equality before the law,

social solidarity and cohesion, cultural diversity, active participation and social responsibility.

Although normative theory of the press is now in a considerable state of uncertainty (Nerone),

identifies certain broad traditions of thought about the rights and responsibilities of media in the

society and the degree to which the society may legitimately intervene to protect the public

interest. The main relevant variants are Authoritarian theory, free press theory, social

responsibility theory, and development media theory.

2.0.1 Authoritarian Theory

This applies to early pre democratic forms of the society and also to present day undemocratic or

autocratic social systems. In this view all media and public communication are subject to the

supervision of the ruling authority and expression or opinion which might undermine the

established social and political order can be forbidden. Although this theory contravenes rights of

freedom of expression, it can be invoked under extreme conditions.

2.0.2 Free press theory

Fully developed in USA; it proclaims complete freedom of public expression and of economic

operation of the media and rejects any interference by the government in any aspect of the press.

A well-functioning market should resolve all issues of media obligation and social need.

2.0.3 Social Responsibility theory

This is found more in Europe and countries under European influence. It is a modified free press

theory placing greater emphasis upon the accountability of the media especially broadcasting to

society. Media are free but they should accept obligations to serve the public good. The means of

ensuring compliance with these obligations can either be through professional self-regulation or

public intervention in both.

2.0.4 Development Media theory

It applies in countries at lower levels of economic development and with limited resources. It

takes various forms but essentially proposes that the media while desirable should be

subordinated to the requirements of economic, social and political development.

Often, the media system of a given country will have a mixture of theoretical elements and

media types displaying neither absolute freedom nor absolute subordination to the state or ruling
power. Hallin and Mancini (2004) argued that we should forget about normative theories and

look more closely at actual arrangements connecting media with society. They propose a

typology of relations between media system and political system, based on a comparative

examination of contemporary national societies. In this view there are three types or variants,

each with different implications for the role and obligations of the media in the society: a liberal

model in which the media operate according to the principles of the free market without formal

connections between media and politics and with minimal state intervention, a democratic

corporatist model in which commercial media co-exist with media tied to organized social and

political groups and the state has a small but active role, a polarized pluralist model, with media

integrated into party politics, weaker commercial media and a strong role for the state.

These models are also ideal types and in practice societies have a mixture of the elements

outlined. Public service broadcasting is found in 2 forms in the second and 3rd models as,

respectively, either a neutralized and politically impartial organization or as politicized in some

way usually with division in terms of the political spectrum. In the fully liberal model, there may

be little or no place for public service broadcasting.

According to Christian, C. G et al, liberalism underlies their normative systems built on a

foundation of methodological individualism: All normative elements finally depend on persons

acting according to their conscience about what kind of public communication represents truth,

justice, and respect for human dignity. Further they argue that no formal claim can legitimately

be made on a free press to carry out any particular task.

Christian et al argue that a key condition for establishing a satisfactory normative formula that

harmonizes the moral claims of all social actors is the quality of dialogue between social actors.

According to Benson (2009) and Habermas (2007)28 they argue that Christian et al argument
that by raising awareness of value laden aspects or arguments, normative theories can help media

policymakers and professionals to acknowledge their own unstated premises and thus serve as

instruments of emancipation from status quo; however how the emancipation is concretely

realized is a challenge. They argue that practice and policy prescriptions have to be adequate to

realize normative ideals and that if authors pessimistically conclude, we live in an age when

there is little serious challenge to the view that the media are primarily a business and that the

freedom of the media is freedom of the trade, then it strain credibility to suppose that small,

transient, non-professional collective happenings oriented towards understanding its own identity

will be adequate to challenge increasingly concentrated, entrenched economic power.

2.1 Institutional framework in Kenya

There are two legislated institutions in Kenya that have oversight responsibilities over

broadcasters. These are the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) formerly known as

Communications Commission of Kenya and The Media Council of Kenya. There are other

associations like the Kenya Union of Journalists, the Kenya Media Owners Associations,

Reporters without borders(RWB), Article 19 Eastern Africa and the courts which aim to achieve

higher professional standards and to protect it members, to promote and defend press freedom.

2.1.1 Communications authority of Kenya

The communications Authority of Kenya formerly known as the communications commission of

Kenya was established under the KICA, 2009 and it is a body corporate capable of being sued

and suing.

The commissions name was changed to abide with section 34(5) of the Kenya constitution, 2010.

CAK’s mandate is broad and includes licensing and regulating postal, information and
communications services in accordance with the provision of KICA and so anyone who wishes

to operate a broadcasting station applies for same from CAK.

The CAK is charged with the duty of ensuring that each local broadcaster airs the amount of

local content in its license, ensure that the broadcasters include news and information in their

programming as well as discussions of national importance and ensuring that the broadcasters

adheres strictly to the subscribed or authorities subscribing code.

The CAK is also charged with the responsibility of prescribing a programme code that sets the

standards for the time and manner of programs to be broadcast by the broadcasting stations.

The CAK also has a duty of resolving disputes between consumers and a service provider and a

service provide provider through its tribunal.

By the year 2007, the liberalization effect in the telecommunication sector had produced an

indirect benefit. A very vibrant broadcasting sector that has seen investors get broadcasting

frequencies for delivering radio and television channels. The technical licensing process was

handled by CAK but the content aspect part remained “unregulated”

The Kenya information and communication Act, 2009 created a Broadcasting Content Advisory

Council (BCAC) role was to work with the media Council in setting rules regulatory mechanism

for broadcast sector and to make decisions on the administration of the broadcast content aspect

and provisions of the Act and on the mechanisms of handing complaints as well as monitoring

compliance with the broadcasting codes and ethics for broadcasters. The BCAC was disbanded

in January 2014 and a new committee Broadcast Standards committee was formed.

The move to create Authority outside the media council of Kenya to set up regulations standards

of the media has been widely opposed by the media sector on grounds that it takes up its
independence and regulations which handled all issues related to media complaints and advised

the CAK on regulations of the Media Council.

2.1.2 The media council of Kenya

The media Council of Kenya (MCK) was established by the Media Act, 2007 and it is mandated

to discipline journalist and oversee the regulation of content of media through self-regulation. By

2009, it was commonly agreed that broadcast content, particularly over FM radio stations were

not being addressed and the government then enacted the Kenya Information and communication

Amendment Act of 2009. The Media Council is a body corporate capable of suing and being

sued. The Media Council of Kenya functions include: To mediate and arbitrate in disputes

between the government and the media, between the public and the media, and intra media, to

promote the freedom and independence of the media, to promote high professional standards

among journalist. to promote ethical standards among journalist and in the media, to ensure the

protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the performance of their duties.

The Media Act also legislated the Code of Conduct for the practice of journalism in its second

schedule which ranges from accuracy and fairness of the journalist, independence, integrity,

accountability, confidentiality, unnamed sources, privacy, acts of violence, hate speech and sex

discrimination.

The media Council of Kenya is mandated to handle complains through its Complaints

Commission (CC) thus providing for a mechanism of solving conflicts among the media stations,

media and public and media and the government.

2.1.3 Legal framework of the media in Kenya

Kenya has signed and is bound by these several international instrumentals that recognize the

free speech principle. In cognizance of its obligations under the above instruments and in

obedience to the principal of freedom of expression, unlike the previous constitution, the Current

Kenya Constitution passed in 2010 provides the freedom of media, freedom to speech, right to

privacy. Under Article 28 of the Constitution, 2010 every person has inherent and, dignity and

the right to have that dignity respected and protected under Article 31 of the Constitution which

provides that every person has the right to privacy which includes the right not to have;

(a) Their person, home or property searched;

(b) Their possession seized.

(c)Information relating to their family or private affairs unnecessarily required or revealed; or

(d) The privacy of their communication revealed

The constitution also provides for Freedom of Expression; In Article 33(1) Every person has the

right to freedom of expression, which includes:

(a)Freedom to seek, receive or impart information or ideas;

(b)Freedom of artistic creativity; and

(c)Academic freedom and freedom of scientific research

In the exercise of the right to freedom of expression, every person shall respect the rights and

reputation of others. In Article 34. (1) Freedom and independence of electronic, print and all

others types of media is guaranteed, but does not extend to any expression specified in Article

33(2) The state shall not:

(a)Exercise control over or interfere with any person engaged in broadcasting, the production or

circulation of any publication or the dissemination of information by any medium; or

(b)Penalize any person for any opinion or view or content of any broadcast, publication or

dissemination.

Broadcasting and other electronic media have freedom of establishment, subject to licensing

procedures that-

(a) Are necessary to regulate the airwaves and other forms of signal distribution; and

(b) Are independent of control by government, political interest or commercial interests

All state-owned media shall:

(a) Be free to determine independently the editorial content of their broadcast or other

communications;

(b) Be impartial; and

(c) Afford fair opportunity for the presentation of divergent views and dissenting opinions

Parliament shall enact legislation that provides for the establishment of a body which shall

(a) Be independent of control by government, political interest or commercial interest;

(b) Reflect the interest of all sections of the society; and

(c) Set media standards and regulate and monitor compliance with those standards

In Article 35 (1) every citizen has the right of access to

(a) Information held by the state; and

(b) Information held by another person and required for the exercise or protection of any right

that affects that person.

Every person has the right to the correction or deletion of untrue or misleading information that

affects that person.

The state shall publish and publicize any important information affecting the nation.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURE
3.0 Introduction
This chapter presents the research design, area of study, population, sample of the population,

sampling technique, instruments for data collection, validation of the questionnaire, administration

of the instruments and method of data analysis.

3.1 Research Design

The case study and descriptive designs was employed in the study. A case study design was used

because the study relied majorly on the programs aired and published by the Kenyan Media

Houses, including: The Royal Media, The Standard Group, Nation Media Group and IMAX since

they contribute the highest percentage of viewership and content distribution in Kenya. The study

is also descriptive since it aims to establish the impact of the media policies and regulations and

how they influence the media from performing to its customer expectation limits.

3.2 Study Area

The study was conducted at the Standard Group, particular reference to KTN Home and KTN

News, Royal Media Services; specifically, Citizen TV, Nation Media Group; specifically, on NTV

and IMAX for K24 TV. The study area is purposive since no studies have been conducted in this

area on this topic.

3.3 Study Population

The target population for the study were journalists from Kenya’s top four media houses; the

Nation Media Group (NMG), the Standard Group, Royal Media Services an IMAX. It also

involved consumers of both local and international programs aired and published by the four media

houses. The accessible population comprised of journalists from the Standard Group and the

consumers of both local and international programs aired and published by the four media houses.
3.4 Population Sample
The sample population of the study was 12 journalists and 36 consumers of the programs. The

producers, directors and hosts were also included in the study, consequently, giving a total of 50

respondents.

3.5 Sampling Techniques and Sampling Size

Purposive sampling was used to select 12 journalists needed for the study. This was achieved

through the number of programs, the contents shared and the rate of experience they had.

Additionally, convenience sampling was used to select the 36 consumers of programs needed for

study. This was achieved by choosing the first 36 interview responders.

3.6 Instruments for Data Collection

An interview schedule was designed as one as one of the data collection instruments for the study.

The program producers, directors and the hosts were also interviewed. The interview questions

(See Appendix I) endeavored to elicit relevant information concerning the effects of media policy

and regulation in the practice of journalism. The interview used both open- and closed-ended

questions. A questionnaire (See Appendix B) titled ‘The Effect of Media Policies and Regulations

in the Practice of Journalism in Kenya’ was also used in the study. The content of this instrument

was based on the findings of the interview conducted with the producers, directors and Show hosts,

as well as on the information from reviewed literature.

The questionnaire had four sections: A, B, C and D:

1. Section ‘A’ was on Characteristics of the Respondents

2. Section ‘B’ was on the Media Policies and Regulation

3. Section ‘C’ was on the Media and the Constitution

4. Section ‘D’ was on challenges of Journalists in Kenya

3.7 Validation of the Questionnaire
The questionnaire designed for the study was subjected to a validation process for face and content

validity. Copies of the questionnaire and the research questions were presented to the instructor

who went through it to ascertain the appropriateness and adequacy of the instrument. A pilot test

was carried out on the instrument using 7 journalists and 20 consumers of the media programs

from The Multimedia University of Kenya.

3.8 Data Collection Methods

Both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were used in the study. The semi

structured interviews with the producers, the directors and show hosts were essential in the

collection of qualitative data. After the pilot test, 48 structured questionnaires were presented to

the remaining respondents and these were useful in the collection of quantitative data.

3.9 Data Analysis

The analysis methods of the study were fully based on the data that was collected using the

questionnaires and interviews about the Impact of Media Policies and Regulations in the Practice

of Journalism in Kenya. Questionnaires collected from the respondents were quantitatively

analyzed and presented in a form of table through percentages. Data collected after the interview

was qualitatively analyzed to complement the quantitative analysis.

3.10 Time Schedule

The study was conducted within the following time break down:

Table 1: Time Schedule for Research Study

No. Activity/Task Quantity Time Place

1.0 Data Collection (Days)

1.1 Preparation of questionnaires 75 3 _

1.2 Issuing questionnaires for 27 3 Multimedia

pilot test University of

Kenya

Daystar

University

1.2 Preparation of questions for 2 1 _

interviews

1.3 Interviewing 2 2 KTN News and

KTN Home

NTV

1.4 Issuing and collection of 48 5 KTN News and

questionnaires KTN Home

Citizen TV

NTV

K24 TV

2.0 Data Analysis

2.1 Raw Data Arrangement _ 14 _

2.2 Data Interpretation _ 6 _

2.3 Accuracy Assessment _ 1 _

2.4 Writing Analysis _ 5 _

2.5 Writing Result and _ 2 _

Discussion
 2.6 Writing Conclusion and _ 2 _

Recommendation

Total Days 41

3.11 Budget
Table 2: Budget Breakdown of Research Study
No. Particulars Units Unit Price Total Price

(Kenya Shillings) (Kenya Shillings)

1.0 Equipment

1.1 Pen 6 25 150

1.2 Pencil 12 20 240

1.3 Bag 1 1800 1800

1.4 Stapler 1 450 450

1.5 Staples (Pack) 2 255 510

1.6 Voice Recorder 1 2500 2500

1.7 Camera 1 8500 8500

1.8 Batteries (Pair) 4 250 1000

1.9 Correction Fluid 1 120 120

1.10 Paper File 3 45 135

2.0 Activity

2.1 Printing 100 5 500

2.2 Photocopying 100 2.50 250

3.0 Others
3.1 Transport _ _ 4550

3.2 Lunch _ _ 2000

22705

3. Contingency Fee _ _ 2270.50

Total Cost 24975.50

CHAPTER FOUR
Presentation, Analysis and Interpretation of Data
4.0 Introduction
This chapter includes the presentation, analysis and interpretation of data that have been gathered

from the questionnaires distributed to the respondents. This chapter also contains the presentation

of data in tabular form along with their corresponding interpretations.

4.1 Characteristics of the Respondents

4.1.1 Gender
Majority of the respondents were female with a frequency of 38 or 79.2 percent of the population
while the male had a frequency of 10 or 20.8 percent. This clearly revokes the notion that “media
industry has been dominated by men.” (Galley, 2014)
Table 3: Gender of Respondents
Gender Frequency Percentage (%)

Male 10 20.8

Female 38 79.2

Total 48 100

4.1.2 Age

The age bracket of above 45 garnered the highest percentage of 28 or 58.3 percent, followed by

25-34 with 12 or 25 percentage, 34-44 with 6 or 12.5 percent and finally, 19-24 with 2 or 4.2

percent.

Table 4: Age Distribution of Respondents

Age Bracket Frequency Percentage (%)
 19-24 2 4.2

25-34 12 25

35-44 6 12.5

Above 45 28 58.3

Total 48 100

4.1.3 Level of Education

Majority of respondents attained a degree as their highest level of education with a frequency of
19 or 39.6 percent, followed by certificate with 16 or 33.3 percent, diploma with 10 or 20.8
percent, masters and above with 2 or 4.2 percent and finally, high school with 1 or 2.1 percent.
Table 5: Level of Education of Respondents
Level of Education Frequency Percentage (%)

High school 1 2.1

Certificate 16 33.3

Diploma 10 20.8

Degree 19 39.6

Masters and Above 2 4.2

Total 48 100
4.2 Media Policies and Regulation

4.2.1 Respondents on government involvement in the media

Majority of the respondents agreed that the media is invaded with decisions from top governmental

and private organizations with a total frequency of 42 or 87.5 percent. However, 6 respondents did

not agree with the statement and made up the remaining 12.5 percent.

Table 6: Respondents on government involvement in the media

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 2 4.2

Somewhat Disagree 4 8.3

Somewhat Agree 6 12.5

Agree 9 18.7

Strongly Agree 27 56.3

Total 48 100

4.2.2 Respondents on the success of independence of media in producing and publishing

content without interference by government bodies

Majority of respondents agree that there is independence of the media and that most media houses

make their own decisions. They also attributed that the culture in media industry can change and

improve the way media will be attributed in future if, private investors are allowed the space to

practice the freedom of the media with the total frequency of 28 or 58.3 percent. On the other hand,

the remaining 20 or 41.7 percent show different levels of disagreement with the statement.
Table 7: Respondents on the success of independence of media in producing and publishing
content without interference by government bodies
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 2 4.2

Disagree 12 25

Somewhat Disagree 6 12.5

Somewhat Agree 7 14.5

Agree 19 39.6

Strongly Agree 2 4.2

Total 48 100

4.2.3 Respondents on whether the government should create a specific body that will be
dealing with media policies and regulation and be renewed after every five years

Majority of respondents showed different levels of agreement that the government should be

allowed to create only one body that will stand as a union for the journalists. This was because

most respondents thought it would be the starting point for the government to have a full control

of what happens within the media industry. However, some respondents suggested that having too

many bodies would fail to create and sustain relevant content and relationships due to multiple

bodies that contribute in media policy making hence providing contradictory information on how

the media should behave in covering stories, with a total of 28 or 58.3 percent. However, the

remaining 20 or 41.7 percent did not believe that relationship building determined the level of

success of media policies. Further investigation reveals that those in disagreement pointed out to

other explanations why the media fail to meet project goals and objectives. Some of the reasons

given included: insufficient capital, inappropriate media or platforms used to disseminate specific

messages and programs, failure to maintain momentum and rejection of ideas by the audience.
Table 8: Respondents on whether the government should create a specific body that will be
dealing with media policies and regulation and be renewed after every five years
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 5 10.4

Disagree 3 6.3

Somewhat Disagree 14 29.2

Somewhat Agree 2 4.2

Agree 9 18.6

Strongly Agree 15 31.3

Total 48 100

4.2.4 Respondents on whether the government has failed to supply enough media policy
materials detailed with information about media coverage in Kenya

Majority of the respondents showed different levels of agreement that most media houses do not

train their employees and that they rely on government journals which run out before they reach

them, with a total frequency of 43 or 89.6 percent. Further investigation revealed that most

respondents had not been exposed to renewed media policies and regulations. However, 5

respondents, who make up 10.4 percent of the total, disagree with the statement citing reasons of

non-commitment by already existing media bodies responsible with Media Policies and

Regulations.
Table 9: Respondents on whether the government has failed to supply enough media policy
materials detailed with information about media coverage in Kenya
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 1 2.1

Disagree 3 6.2

Somewhat Disagree 1 2.1

Somewhat Agree 5 10.4

Agree 5 10.4

Strongly Agree 33 68.8

Total 48 100

4.3 Media and the Constitution

4.3.1 Respondents on whether Articles 34 and 35 of the constitution of Kenya are limited
and deny the journalists the full mandate to practice journalism

Majority of the respondents claimed that they could sometimes feel barred from exercising their

rights since they are under different rules including the Code of ethics to follow hence fail to

choose which set of rules to follow. This further suggest that there are rights which the journalists

fail to enjoy with an aim of exercising the journalistic principles. The 25 made up 52.1 percent of

the total. 13 respondents claimed that they could often feel barred and denied, making up 27.1 of

the total. Moreover, 10 respondents claimed that they could always fail to exercise their rights in

order to act journalistically. A probe into these types of respondents revealed that the media policy

does not provide full explanation and does not cover both the constitution and the code of ethics

for the practice of journalism.

Table 10: Respondents on whether Articles 34 and 35 of the constitution of Kenya are limited and
deny the journalists the full mandate to practice journalism
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Never 0 0

Rarely 0 0

Sometimes 25 52.1

Often 13 27.1

Always 10 20.8

Total 48 100

4.3.2 Respondents on how well they understand the constitution on articles 34 and 35 and
whether they are self-explanatory or need further amendments
Majority of the respondents claim that they rarely fail to completely understand the section of the

constitution citing that the phrases used are not clear and that contradict each other with other

sections of the constitution, with a frequency 19 or 39.6 percent, followed by those who at times

understand, with a frequency of 10 or 20.8 percent. Respondents that always understand the

Articles of the constitution make up 16.7 percent of the total, with a frequency of 8. The least

number of respondents claim that they do not understand the articles at all and suggest that they

be amended, with a frequency of 5 or 10.4 percent.

Table 11: Respondents on how well they understand the constitution on articles 34 and 35 and
whether they are self-explanatory or need further amendments
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Never 8 16.7

Rarely 19 39.6

Sometimes 10 20.8
 Often 6 12.5

Always 5 10.4

Total 48 100

4.3.3 Respondents on whether the constitution was followed in creating the media policy and
regulations

Majority of the respondents often share their personal opinions citing differences that the media

policy provides, which differ to the constitution and suggest that the constitution was not

completely followed, with a frequency of 23 or 47.9 percent, followed by those that say that both

the constitution and the policy conquer hence the law was followed, with 8 or 16.7 percent, those

that do not understand the relationship with 7 or 14.6 percent, those that always relate the policy

to the constitution with 6 or 12.5 percent. The remaining 4 or 8.3 percent sometimes support the

statement and sometimes reject the validity.

Table 12: Respondents on whether the constitution was followed in creating the media policy and
regulations
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Never 8 16.7

Rarely 7 14.6

Sometimes 4 8.3

Often 23 47.9

Always 6 12.5

Total 48 100
4.4 Challenges of Journalists

4.4.1 Respondents on Journalists Rights and Freedoms are influenced by the media policy

All the respondents showed different levels of agreement that the policy chooses the rights and

freedoms of the journalist and when they should practice so. More specifically, 40 of the

respondents or 83.3 percent of the total strongly agreed to the statement, followed by 6 or 12.5

percent who somewhat agreed to it and finally, 2 or 4.2 percent who basically agreed to it.

Table 13: Respondents on Journalists Rights and Freedoms are influenced by the media policy
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Agree 6 12.5

Agree 2 4.2

Strongly Agree 40 83.3

Total 48 100

4.4.2 Respondents on whether the bodies responsible for the safety of journalists desert the
journalists during scandals

All the respondents strongly agreed media governing bodies distance themselves whenever a

scandal covered by journalists occurs and leaves the journalists to their own fate. Further

explanation reflected scandals that involved government officials and how these bodies would

claim not to have known such investigations by the journalists were being conducted.
Table 14: Respondents on whether the bodies responsible for the safety of journalists desert the
journalists during scandals
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Agree 0 0

Agree 0 0

Strongly Agree 48 100

Total 48 100

4.4.3 Respondents on whether the policy safeguards the states interest and not the
journalists covering stories related to the government

Majority of the respondents basically agree that the media policy was developed for the favor of

the government and not the journalists despite its intentions to cover for the journalists, with a

frequency of 15 or 31.2 percent, followed by respondents who strongly agree, with 12 or 25 percent

and those who somewhat agree with 11 or 22.9 percent. On the other hand, 9 respondents or 18.8

percent of the total somewhat disagreed while 1 respondent basically disagreed with the statement.

Table 15: Respondents on whether the policy safeguards the states interest and not the
journalists covering stories related to the government
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 1 2.1

Somewhat Disagree 9 18.8

 Somewhat Agree 11 22.9

Agree 15 31.25

Strongly Agree 12 25

Total 48 100

4.4.4 Respondents on whether the rights to articles 31, 33, 34 and 35 of the constitution of
Kenya are limited once one becomes a journalist

Majority of the respondents showed different levels of agreement that the right to privacy, freedom

of expression, freedom of the media and the right to access to information are limited once they

are accepted to the society as journalists, with a total frequency of 38 or 79.2 percent. However,

the remaining 10 or 20.8 percent disagreed with the statement.

Table 16
Respondents on whether the rights to articles 31, 33, 34 and 35 of the constitution of Kenya are
limited once one becomes a journalist
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 4 8.3

Somewhat Disagree 6 12.5

Somewhat Agree 6 12.5

Agree 19 39.6

Strongly Agree 13 27.1

Total 48 100
4.4.5 Respondents on whether journalists are exposed to more danger on covering state
affairs and are at risk of losing their lives if their investigations are discovered

Majority of respondents agreed that journalists face a lot of danger while covering stories that

involve the government and that they would face murder or assassination at some point, with a

frequency of 33 or 68.7 percent. Further investigation revealed that most journalist who have

already covered some stories about the government have been demoted while others permanently

barred from accessing some media facilities. However, the remaining 15 or 31.3 percent disagreed

to the statement and claimed that they themselves were subjected to some form of test that

measured their patriotism and competence with the government.

Table 17
Respondents on whether journalists are exposed to more danger on covering state affairs and are
at risk of losing their lives if their investigations are discovered
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 15 31.3

Somewhat Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Agree 0 0

Agree 33 68.7

Strongly Agree 0 0

Total 48 100
4.4.6 Respondents on whether journalists should be allowed to form bodies which would
cater for their rights and not the government through the parliament

44 respondents agreed that all bodies formed by the government should be disbanded and new

ones created by the journalists. This is because, the new bodies formed by the journalists would

be able to meet the set objectives and work in favor of the journalists working environment. A

probe into their responses revealed that this would be made possible if the parliamentary

committees would allow journalists to contribute in policy making on matters relating to

journalists. However, 4 respondents somewhat disagreed citing that there were instances when the

government would easily channel their authority and influence these bodies that journalists would

have created.

Table 18
Respondents on whether journalists should be allowed to form bodies which would cater for their
rights and not the government through the parliament
Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Strongly Disagree 0 0

Disagree 0 0

Somewhat Disagree 4 8.3

Somewhat Agree 12 25

Agree 19 39.6

Strongly Agree 13 27.1

Total 48 100
CHAPTER FIVE
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 CONCLUSION
The media policy and regulations as provided by the law does not perform its duties in regard to

the practice of journalism. Occasionally, as provided by the respondents there are a number of

factors which should be brought to consideration, steadfast, to ensure that journalists have a free

and appropriate environment to exercise their professionalism.

However, to ensure that all the rules and policies are followed, the government has forgotten that

we are working on another platform since the digital migration in 2015. Working on a Media Act

of Kenya 2013 is sort of outdated and will mean to limit most journalists from accessing specific

advantages that may facilitate appropriate release of data and information. It may be very important

if the media act was updated, to favor and be in concurrence with other laws and regulations

provided by other media governing bodies such as Association of Media Women in Kenya

(AMWIK).

For the journalists, sensitization needs to be done. By the study, most journalists work in media

houses without the full knowledge of what they are privileged on the Media Policy. Just like the

Code of Ethics, every journalist has the responsibility of equipping themselves with the contents

of the media policy of Kenya. It should run in their fingertips and they should be ready to defend

and protect their selves from being exploited and denied their full authority into the practice of

journalism in Kenya.
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
1. For the success of media in Independence should be given an upper hand and the

government should distance itself from the practices of the media.

2. The government should create a specific body that will be dealing with media policies and

regulation and be renewed after every five years or let the journalists come with their own

body which will govern their practices.

3. The government should supply enough media policy materials detailed with information

about media coverage in Kenya,

4. The constitution should be followed in creating the media policy and regulations that work

to favor and support the practice of journalism which should be updated after every year to

favor the working environment of the journalists.

5. The bodies responsible for the safety of journalists should be ready to back-up the

journalists and defend their actions whenever a scandal occurs.

 References

1. African Commission on Human and People‟s Rights (ACHPR). (2002). Resolution of the

Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa. Retrieved from the web:

http://www.achpr.org/english/declarations/declarationfreedom

2. African Media Barometer (2005-2006) Self-assessment reports on 17 African countries.

http://www.fesmedia.org.na

3. Berger, G. (2007). Looking ahead: what next for Africa media. In Barratt, E. & Berger,

G. (Ed), 50 years of Journalism: Africa Media since Ghana‟s Independence (p.7). South

Africa: Africa Editors Forum.

4. Campbell, W.J. (1996) Newspapers in emerging democracies: A cross-regional study of

the newly independent press in Central Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. Retrieved from

the web.

5. European Convention on Human Rights, 1998.

6. Fentuck, M. (1999) Media Regulation, Public interest and the Law. Edinburgh:

University of Edinburgh Press.

7. Githaigi G. (2001) Public broadcasting in Africa Series: Kenya,Open Society Foundation

Survey report

8. Hallin, D. and Mancini, P. (2004) Comparing Media Systems. Cambridge: University of

Cambridge press

9. Habermas, J. (2007) How to Save the quality press?Suddeutsche Zeitung.Translated into

English version and available at http://print.signandsight.com/features/1349.html

10. Makali, D. (2003) (Ed) Media Law & Practice-The Kenya Jurisprudence. Phoenix

publishers Limited: Nairobi

11. Media law Handbook series: Handbook series edition (2010). Retrieved from

http://www.america.gov/publications/books/media law_law.html

12. Moggi, P. and Tessier, R. (2001). Media status report: Kenya. Groupe de recherche et

D‟échanges technologiques (GRET). Retrieved from

http://www.gret.org/parma/uk2/ressource/edm/kenya.htm

research/temp/moehler_private_radio_media_effects_02-07-06.pdf.

13. Nyabuga, G. & Booker N. Mapping Digital media: Kenya report by open society

foundations.Retrieved from http://www.opensocietyfoundations.org/…/mapping-digital-

media-kenya-201303

14. Ngugi, M. (2012) From Fetters to Freedom (in) the long walk to Media Freedom.

Nairobi: MCK

15. Ochieng, P. (1992). I Accuse the Press: An insider‟s view of the media and politics in

Africa. Initiative Publishers ACTS Press: Nairobi.

16. Odhiambo, L. (2002). „The Media Environment in Kenya since 1990‟. African Studies.

61(2): 295-318.

17. Oriare,P., Orlarle, R.. & Ugangu, W.(2010)The media We Want: The Kenya Media

Vulnerabilities Study. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung: Nairobi

18. Schauer F. (1982) Free Speech: A philosophical inquiry. Cambridge University Press,

Cambridge. Page 3-7

19. The Kenya Broadcasting Act, CAP 221

20. The Kenya Information and communications Act, 2013

21. The Media Act, 2013 Government Printers: Nairobi

22. The Kenya Information and Communication Act, 2013.Government Printers: Nairobi

23. The Kenya Constitution, 2010 Government Printers: Nairobi

24. Webster, F. (1995) Theories of Information Society. London: Routledge.

25. William, K., (2003). Understanding Media Theory. Oxford university press: New York
APPENDICES
Appendix A
LETTER OF INTRODUCTION

MULTIMEDIA UNIVERSITY OF KENYA,

P.O BOX 30305, NAIROBI, KENYA.
JULY 13. 2018
PROGRAMME OFFICER,

P.O BOX 4326,

NAIROBI, KENYA.
Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: REQUEST FOR PERMISSION TO CONDUCT RESEARCH AT YOUR

FACILITY/INSTITUTION
My name is Teddy Leting, a Bachelor of Journalism (Print Specialization) student at the
Multimedia University of Kenya. The research I wish to conduct for my honors thesis involves
“The effect of media policies and regulations in the practice of journalism in Kenya”. This
project will be conducted under the supervision of Sylvia Masese (MMU, Kenya).

I am hereby seek your consent to use a number of journalists and other staff employees of your
organization as subjects in my research.

I shall provide you with a copy of my thesis proposal which shall delineate the measures to be
implemented in the research process.

Upon the completion of the study, I undertake to provide Multimedia University of Kenya with a
bound copy of the full research report. If you require any further information, please do not
hesitate to contact me on (+254) 0748377764 and teddyleting@gmail.com. I would highly
appreciate your immediate consideration to this request.

Yours faithfully,

Teddy Leting.

Cc: Project Coordinator.

Appendix B
INTERVIEW SCHEDULE

Opening

Thank you for agreeing to talk to me today. I am conducting a research study on the effects of

media policy and regulation in the practice of journalism in Kenya, particular reference to major

Media Houses in Kenya and I would like to include your input in the study. By gaining your

thoughts and opinions, Policy Makers will be able to appreciate the key role that media policy

plays in the practice of journalism. I have a few questions to ask you.

Body

1. What is your Interpretation of Media Policies and Regulation?

2. Do you use these policies in your day to day practice of journalism?

3. What’s the difference between policies and regulations as provided by the law under your

working environment?

It is evident that many Journalists do not know the difference.

4. Do you prefer using fully informational journals and other relevant materials as provided by the

law or work with your own; organizational policies?

5. Do you think most journalists fail to follow journalistic principles because they have limited

access to these policies? Because the policy contradicts with the constitution? Because the policy

does not fully support the code of conduct for the practice of journalism? Or because of

Negligence? Why?
6. Do you train your employees, the journalists about the contents of the policy? If so, How? Do

you subject your journalists to seminars that educate on media policies and regulation? Which are

these seminars

7. What benefits has the Media Policy reflected in your organization?

Closing

If you think of anything else that you would like to say about Media Policies and Regulations, feel

free to email me at: teddyleting@gmail.com

Thank you.
Appendix C
THE EFFECT OF MEDIA POLICIES AND REGULATIONS IN THE PRACTICE OF
JOURNALISM IN KENYA

My name is Teddy Leting, a Bachelor of Journalism (Print Specialization) student at the

Multimedia University of Kenya. I am conducting a research on the effects of media policies and
regulations in the practice of journalism in Kenya, particularly reflecting the contributions of the
Constitution of Kenya of 2010 and the Media Act of 2013. By gaining your thoughts and opinions,
Policy makers will be able to appreciate the key role that policies and regulations play in content
distribution in Kenya. This survey should only take 4-5 minutes to complete. Be assured that all
answers you provide will be kept in the strictest confidentiality. If you want to be informed about
the results of this survey, please email me: teddyleting@gmail.com. Questions marked with an
asterisk (*) are required. If there are items you do not feel comfortable answering, please skip
them. Thank you for your input.

Section A: Biodata

Please circle the most appropriate response.

1. Gender: a) Male b) Female

2. Age: a) 19-24 b) 25-34 c)35-44 d) Above 45
3. Level of education: a) High school b) Certificate c) Diploma
d) Degree e) Masters and above

Section B: Media policies and Regulation (*)

The following items describe statements about the media policies and regulations. Indicate your
agreement or disagreement with the following statements by circling your response using this
scale:

1 2 3 4 5 6

Strongly Disagree Somewhat Somewhat Agree Agree Strongl Disagree

Disagree Disagree
 SD SA

1. Media does not execute its authority which is influenced by government involvement.
1 2 3 4 5 6

2. There is independence of the media in producing, publishing and distributing content.

1 2 3 4 5 6

3. The government should create one body specific with media regulations and be renewed after 5
years. 1 2 3 4 5 6

4. The government has failed to supply enough media policy materials detailed with information
on media coverage in Kenya. 1 2 3 4 5 6

Section C: Media and the Constitution (*)

Below is a list of statements. Please read each statement carefully and rate how frequently you
feel or act in the manner described. Tick your answer on the response form. Please answer each
answer as honestly as you can.

No. Strongly Disagree Not Sure Agree Strongly

Disagree Agree
1. Articles 34 and 35 of the constitution limit the
freedom of the journalists.
2. I understand Articles 34 and 35 and are self-
explanatory but need amendments.
3. Other people’s misfortunes do not disturb me a
great deal.
4. The Constitution was followed in creating the
Media policy and Regulations.
 Section D: Challenges of Journalists

Indicate your agreement or disagreement with the following statements by circling your response
using this scale:

1 2 3 4 5 6

Strongly Disagree Somewhat Somewhat Agree Agree Strongl Disagree

Disagree Disagree

SD SA

1. Journalists Rights and Freedoms are influenced by the Media Policy, Media Act and Code of
Ethics. 1 2 3 4 5 6

2. The bodies responsible for the safety of journalists deserts the journalists during scandals.
1 2 3 4 5 6

3 The policy safeguards the states interest and not the journalists covering stories related to the
government. 1 2 3 4 5 6

4. The rights to articles 31, 33, 34 and 35 of the constitution of Kenya are limited once one becomes
a journalist. 1 2 3 4 5 6

5. Journalists are exposed to more danger on covering state affairs and are at risk of losing their
lives if their investigations are discovered.

1 2 3 4 5 6
6. Journalists should be allowed to form bodies which would cater for their rights and not the
government through the parliament.

1 2 3 4 5 6

-End-