Africa

Kenya

{This graph represents scores that have been modified by CIMA so that higher scores indicate a better media situation. It is intended to show trends over time; each index measures significantly different factors of press freedom. To see an explanation for how this graph was created, click here.}

IREX Score: 2.23	[IREX Methodology]
{Higher is Better, Score Ranges from 0 to 4.00}

IREX Description:

Although Kenya's media display certain strengths, widespread intimidation of the media persists. Last year's MSI described Kenyan journalists' fears that hard times were in front of them, with politicians apparently conspiring against the media. These concerns proved well-founded. President Kibaki approved changes to the media law that broadened the scope of official power to interfere with the media, under the guise of protecting national security. The Government of National Unity, brokered by regional leaders, remains in control, but the situation is very volatile—with indications that it may collapse in advance of the 2012 general elections. The state continues to suppress press freedom, supported by a framework of oppressive media laws—some inherited from colonial governments.

The government continues to enact new media laws, described by journalists as draconian, under the guise of media regulation.

Despite all these problems, however, there are causes for optimism. There are no restrictions on the Internet, or on access to foreign or domestic news sources. Additionally, Kenyans enjoy a wide plurality of news sources and benefit from strong supporting institutions. United among media practitioners and various professional associations is growing. For example, media associations work with NGOs to deliver training programs for journalists. Such trainings aimed to equip journalists with skills to cover violent situations and uphold press ethics, in an attempt to avoid a repeat of what transpired during the post-elections violence—when some journalists took sides, produced biased reporting, and were labeled partisan as a result.

Read more on IREX’s site…

Freedom House Score: 54 (Partly Free)	[Freedom House Methodology]
{Lower is Better, Score Ranges from 0 to 100}

Freedom on the Net Score: 32 (Partly Free)	[Freedom House Methodology]
{Lower is Better, Score Ranges from 0 to 100}

Use of the internet and mobile telephones is relatively unfettered in Kenya, and access to the technology continues to grow. Although a lack of infrastructure and high costs still hamper connectivity for many Kenyans, the installation of two undersea cables in 2009 has dramatically improved bandwidth, and prices are starting to come down. Since 2008, there have been no confirmed incidents of government filtering or interference with online communication. However, in January 2009, the government passed a controversial Communications Amendment Act despite warnings from civil society groups that it could hinder free expression.

Africa

Kenya

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