Economic Hardships Facing Journalists Take Centre Stage at 3rd National Media–CSO Conference in Nairobi

Economic vulnerability among Kenyan journalists emerged as a defining theme during the 3rd National Media–Civil Society Conference, held in Nairobi last week.

The two-day conference brought together journalists, civil society leaders, media owners, editors, regulators, and development partners to examine the mounting pressures facing the media industry and to propose collaborative strategies for strengthening Kenya’s democratic space.

This year’s forum was convened with support from partners including the Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA), Article 19 Eastern Africa, Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), and Transparency International Kenya, alongside other civic and media development organizations.

Economic Pressures Undermining Journalism Standards

Stakeholders expressed concern that journalists—particularly county correspondents—continue to face difficult financial conditions, including delayed pay, low remuneration, lack of insurance, and absence of formal contracts.

“The economic vulnerability of journalists threatens not only their welfare but the quality and independence of journalism in Kenya. Financial insecurity makes reporters more susceptible to manipulation and limits the depth of accountability reporting,” said Philomena Mbaye, Project Assistant – Citizen Demand and Oversight (Access to Justice).

Associations noted that some journalists earn as little as KSh 200 per story, while others go months without pay—conditions that not only undermine media independence but expose reporters to heightened risk.

EU: A Strong Democracy Needs a Strong Media

Development partners called for greater collaboration to safeguard media freedom and ensure that journalists can work safely and effectively.

“A vibrant, independent, and well-supported media is essential for any democratic society. The European Union remains committed to supporting journalists in Kenya by strengthening press freedom, access to information, and the safety of media workers both online and offline,” said Ms. Cristina Barrios, Head of Political, Press & Information Section at the EU Delegation to Kenya.

She emphasized that digital threats, misinformation, and economic instability require collective commitment from government, media owners, and civil society.