By Raylenne Kambua As the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) commemorates 20 years of dialogue and impact since the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) 2005, the conversations this year were grounded in reflection and action. With more than 62% of the African population still offline, the call to build inclusive, resilient, and sovereign digital systems persists. In his opening keynote at the AIGF, Dr. Mactar Seck, Chief of Section for Emerging Frontiers Technologies, Innovation, and Digital Transformation at UNECA, set the tone: “Africa is the least connected continent in the world… Yet, we lead in mobile money transactions, accounting for 74% of global activity. This proves we have the potential and now we must channel it into digital resilience and innovation.” Dr. Mactar underscored the paradox that defines Africa’s digital journey. Despite being at the forefront of financial tech innovation, particularly mobile money, the continent still grapples with foundational issues such as low connectivity, underrepresentation of local languages online, and limited youth-focused digital capacity-building and support. His rallying call? Build resilient digital public infrastructure (DPIs) Remove trade barriers within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Strengthen cybersecurity management Support private sector growth Continue engaging multi stakeholders in shaping Internet governance policies Equip Africa’s youth- who make up 42% of the world’s population with relevant digital competencies and support Dr. Mactar Seck- UNECA These priorities echoed in the remarks of Mr. Mohammed Hamis Abdula, Permanent Secretary at Tanzania’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Framing the current era as a gateway between the 4th and 5th Industrial Revolutions, he reminded delegates that the speed of technological advancement through AI, robotics, IoT, drones, and big data, demands proactive governance. “We cannot ignore technologies considering their potential to transform all aspects of life. But transformation needs accommodative and impactful laws, policies,” he said. These priorities echoed in the remarks of Mr. Mohammed Hamis Abdula, Permanent Secretary at Tanzania’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Framing the current era as a gateway between the 4th and 5th Industrial Revolutions, he reminded delegates that the speed of technological advancement through AI, robotics, IoT, drones, and big data, demands proactive governance. Tanzania, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, has made strategic moves towards a digital-first economy. The National Digital Economy Strategy and supporting legislative instruments ,including the National ICT Policy, the Cybercrimes Act, the Data Protection Act, and the E-Government Act , illustrate how governments can create enabling environments that safeguard innovation while promoting safe and inclusive tech ecosystems. Still, Mr. Abdula acknowledged that gender and digital disparities remain pressing concerns, calling on all stakeholders to collaborate in bridging the gaps that keep communities offline or underserved. Hon. Jerry William Silaha, Tanzania’s Minister for Communication and ICT, reinforced the fellow speakers sentiments and also celebrated the IGF’s 20-year milestone with a focus on future readiness. Hon. Jerry William Silaha, Tanzania’s Minister for Communication and ICT “We must reflect on our achievements and challenges and align our strategies with the Global Digital Compact.” Minister Silaha emphasized the importance of regional digital integration, citing Tanzania’s commitment to expanding mobile broadband infrastructure, now reaching up to 5G speeds for wide segments of the population. These investments are not only transforming connectivity in urban centers but are also empowering economies across neighboring countries. The AfIGF 2025 is a mirror reflecting both progress and the work that lies ahead. Across all sessions delegates were encouraged to shape Africa’s digital destiny with its people, languages, values, and innovation at the center.This means: Putting youth at the heart of digital transformation Creating digital literacy pipelines that don’t leave rural or marginalized populations behind Embedding inclusion in every policy, from cybersecurity to data governance Making Internet access not just a priority, but a right.
Digital Natives at the Centre of Africa’s Digital Future
By Raylenne Kambua On May 29, 2025, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, became the epicenter of a powerful youth-led digital revolution. Held as a pre-event to the 14th Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF), the Africa Youth Internet Governance Forum Youth Track brought together energetic and passionate young delegates from over 40 African countries. The goal? To equip Gen Z and other young Africans with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to shape digital policies and assert their rightful place in internet governance dialogues. The central theme resounded clearly-Youth must be at the heart of internet governance. As digital natives, young people navigate and build the online world daily, yet their voices are often underrepresented in the policy spaces shaping that very ecosystem. Stakeholders, including Members of Parliament (MPs), emphasized that empowering youth in digital spaces is a collective responsibility, not solely that of governments but a shared duty among civil society, the private sector, and youth themselves. The day kicked off with a session on Digital Identity & Borderless Opportunity, a workshop designed to demystify digital identity systems and their connection to economic opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Using real-life examples like Rwanda’s e-ID and Ghana’s mobile wallet interoperability, youth learned how secure digital IDs can unlock access to banking, healthcare, and even cross-border business. The session drove home a critical point: when youths understand their digital rights and identities, they gain power to transcend limitations and engage in Africa’s digital economy meaningfully. The African Youth brought to light pressing challenges faced in the digital space. The delegates from across the continent shared personal stories of losing access to their accounts without explanation, experiencing complete social media shutdowns during elections or protests, and facing repressive internet laws that stifled their ability to speak out or conduct online businesses. These experiences underscored a growing concern that content moderation, when applied without transparency or local context, often becomes a tool for silencing dissent and minority voices rather than protecting users. The sentiment that echoed clearly was that: “Content moderation must not become a tool to silence minority voices.” Participants emphasized the urgent need for youth-inclusive digital policies and accountability from both governments and tech platforms. They called for clearer guidelines, better appeals processes, and a rights-based approach to content governance that protects freedom of expression while upholding digital safety. Kenyan Senator- Catherine Muyeka addressing the youths during the AfYIGF session One of the most impactful moments of the day came during the session Youth and MPs – Intergenerational Dialogue on Digital Governance. In a rare show of unity, young people sat face-to-face with parliamentarians from across Africa to candidly discuss their digital realities. In her comment, Kenyan Senator Catherine Muyeka reminded the attendees of their duty in shaping internet policies and procedures, “While laws must follow due legislative processes, youth engagement is key to crafting inclusive digital frameworks,” she affirmed. MPs assured the young leaders that their concerns were heard and encouraged them to use formal channels to influence change. With the rapid digital transformation and the need to adopt digital identity systems in African countries, another important session explored how digital IDs, like Rwanda’s e-ID and Ghana’s mobile wallets can unlock cross-border opportunities under AfCFTA. While digital IDs promise access to services, trade, and mobility, challenges such as limited connectivity, lack of awareness, and exclusion from ID systems persist. Youth also voiced concerns about data privacy and the need for inclusive design. Despite these hurdles, the session emphasized that with the right support, digital IDs can be powerful tools for youth to thrive in Africa’s digital economy. The forum concluded with critical recommendations: Governments and stakeholders must invest in digital education Making tech and digital-focused courses free, accessible, and relevant. National digital strategies should reflect youth priorities, aspirations, amplify their innovations, and include them in decision-making processes. Most importantly, youth participation in governance must move beyond tokenism to genuine influence and co-creation As the Africa young IGF 2025 came to an end, the youth were reminded that they are responsible for the continent’s digital destiny. And they’re constantly prepared to lead, not merely take part, as the culture in similar Youth IGF engagements. The Youth Track of the AfIGF serves as a platform to empower young people to engage meaningfully in Internet governance. Through targeted workshops, interactive sessions, and mentorship, it builds the capacity of Africa’s emerging digital leaders by equipping them with the tools, insights, and connections necessary to shape a more inclusive, open, and forward-looking digital future. It is a space where youth voices actively contribute to the development of internet policy and technology across the continent.
Reclaiming Digital and Media Freedoms in the UPR Era
Reclaiming Digital and Media Freedoms in the UPR Era By Raylenne Kambua On the sidelines of KICTANet’s Africa Tech policy Summit array of events, IAWRT Kenya had the opportunity to participate in the Advocacy Engagement on Digital Rights in Kenya and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) side event, on Tuesday , 13th May. This engagement aimed to enhance the capacity of various stakeholders and especially civil society organizations in the UPR process, which is a unique mechanism established in 2006 and that involves a review of the human rights records of all UN Member States, making Kenya a country of interest. While it is notable that strides have been made to promote human rights, most African countries are yet to fully achieve total freedom to even enjoy basic human rights both online and offline. With the growing dominance of technology, digital rights have become an integral part of human rights. Broadly defined, digital rights refer to the rights humans enjoy online through the use of electronic platforms and tools. By virtue of being human rights, they must be respected, protected, and upheld by all. Speaking at the meeting and referencing the SIFA 2024 report, Dr. Wakabi Wairagala, a researcher at CIPESA, highlighted a worrying trend -the decline of democratic governance across Africa and a corresponding rise in authoritarianism. According to the report, many African governments have increasingly employed repressive tools and tactics such as internet shutdowns, media censorship, surveillance, and regressive laws to stifle civic participation and democratic engagement. A recent example is the internet shutdown in Kenya during the June 2024 Finance Bill protests, which was widely seen as an attempt to silence dissenting voices. The report further categorizes the digital rights landscape across the continent, noting that most African countries only ‘Partially’ enjoy these rights. Kenya and Uganda fall within this category, while countries like Sudan, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Rwanda are classified as ‘Not Free.’ A Glimpse into press freedom in Kenya In Kenya, while media freedom is constitutionally guaranteed, its practical exercise faces numerous challenges. Speaking during this year’s World Press freedom Day, Kenya Editor’s Guild President, Zubeidah Kananu highlighted that ,despite the legal frameworks and right to press freedom, the country’s media landscape is marred by a growing culture of impunity, due to external pressures and government influence. On the other hand, in the online space, AMWIK’s 2024 report highlights that the rapid shift toward digital platforms has not spared female journalists from the growing threat of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV)—a major concern in the realm of digital rights. The report reveals that this persistent online abuse has contributed to a culture of self-censorship and the normalization of such violence. Notably, 40% of survey respondents believe that TFGBV is not treated as a criminal offense, further entrenching impunity and silencing of affected voices. In the most recent Universal Periodic Review (UPR) submissions, stakeholders raised serious concerns about threats, intimidation, harassment, surveillance, and physical assaults targeting journalists. These hostile conditions have led some journalists to self-censor their reporting out of fear of reprisals. Although there had been hope that previous recommendations on press freedom and the safety of journalists would be implemented, many remain unfulfilled. As a result, journalists continue to face deliberate attacks, both online and offline as seen during the 2024 Finance Bill Protests in Kenya. Why the continuous participation in the UPR Process matters for press freedom and digital rights in Kenya Key media stakeholders and CSOs participation in the URP holds the promise of liberating journalists from random online and offline brutality and holding the government accountable for their human rights commitments. This is a path toward real, systemic change. Key reasons why active participation in this process matters include to: Voice lived realities Seaking during the panel discussion, Joy Christine from Center for Human Rights and Policy Studies (CHRIPS) , sensitized on the need to document and gather data in this process.The UPR process allows civil society actors, including media stakeholders to submit “shadow reports” that reflect the actual experiences of journalists on the ground. IAWRT Kenya has been up to task in this kind of documentation, with their Monitoring and Reporting Violations Against Journalists in Africa mechanism. This form of data collection in the form of storytelling is powerful as it personalizes data and gives evidence-based statistics, turning them into human rights narratives. Build and strengthen solidarity The participation in the UPR brings Kenya’s press freedom challenges to the attention of other local stakeholders, donors, and international NGOs. A key objective of this meeting was to strengthen the broad-based coalition of civil society organisations, media, legal experts, and policymakers to advocate for the implementation of digital rights recommendations. Mitchelle Oyugi from Akina Mama Wa Afrika( AMWA), discouraged the silos mode of operation by CSO , and championed a unified approach for a strengthened voice and to bolster the advocacy efforts locally and even beyond. Safeguard journalists’ personal and professional lives Journalists continue to face threats ranging from physical attacks and arbitrary arrests to online harassment. Participation in the UPR provides a formal, international mechanism to document these violations, ensuring follow-up and in turn pressure governments to improve journalist safety. The participation of Kenya in the UPR process matters for press freedom and digital rights because it turns individual country struggles into public accountability. Previous contributions by stakeholders have provided journalists and media defenders not only with a global stage to speak truth to power, but also with the means to push for structural reforms. In Kenya, the relentless participation of media actors in the UPR process has already yielded tangible results. From regional and international condemnation of repression to local reforms in policy and practice. To protect press freedom and subsequent digital rights, media stakeholders must continue to seize this platform to their advantage.
Digital Danger: The Impact of Online Harassment on Female Journalists in Kenya
Digital Danger: The Impact of Online Harassment on Female Journalists in Kenya By Carolyne Gachacha Female journalists in Kenya continue to face significant challenges related to online harassment, which discourages many from fully embracing digital tools and platforms. A report by the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) reveals that online harassment has caused some women journalists to avoid using digital tools. Many female journalists have not joined professional associations that offer access to digital training, including in digital security. Additionally, the lack of reporting on technology-assisted gender-based violence—especially when it targets women journalists—further perpetuates the problem. The problem is worsened by several systemic issues: Few female journalists join professional associations that offer digital security training. Cases of technology-assisted gender violence often go unreported. Media houses and training institutions are slow to implement digital policies and update curricula to reflect emerging technologies. Regulatory gaps exist around AI, data privacy, cybersecurity, and social media governance. Technology platforms also play a role, with anonymity enabling abusers and algorithms amplifying harmful content. Despite growing efforts from advocacy groups, legal frameworks, and platform reforms, more needs to be done. Proposed solutions include: Strengthening support networks and advocacy. Holding tech platforms accountable. Improving digital literacy and safety training. Enacting and enforcing protective legislation. Fostering inclusive, supportive newsroom cultures. The document emphasizes that addressing online harassment is critical to enabling female journalists to safely and confidently engage with digital tools essential to modern journalism.
Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) The Future Of Free Expression?
Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) The Future Of Free Expression? By Nelly M. Nyangorora Opinion Every 3rd May, the world observes World Press Freedom Day. It is a reminder to industry players and the public of the importance of a free,independent and pluralistic press. The theme this year ,reflected on the urgency to adapt to the fast evolving technological space stressing the need for agility and upskilling for those in the media space. The Guardian in its publication of 3rd May titled “There is a war on journalists raging around the world: Let their voices be heard, reveals escalating threats faced by journalists. It points to a rising wave across the globe undermining press freedom that includes disinformation, state surveillance,media disruption and shutdown, imprisonment and even targeted violence. The report highlights a report of the Committee to Protect Journalists CPJ 2024, citing last year as the worst with at least 124 journalists killed. The report details increasing dangers journalists face around the globe, including widespread online misinformation. Some regimes are weaponizing digital tools to silence the press, while others are employing emerging technologies to protect journalists, enhance storytelling and expand the reach of factual reporting. It is a double edged sword!I had the privilege to engage with the esteemed members of the international association of women in radio and television IAWRT in a webinar, on Leveraging AI as Women Journalists. This session couldn’t have come at an opportune time, when women journalists are not just adapting to change but actively shaping it. We had a stimulating session that also incorporated digital safety awareness, and explored how AI is being woven into the fabric of journalism. With over 32 million internet users and a rapidly growing youth population that is tech savvy and media hungry, digital storytelling is evolving fast. The smartphone is the newsroom of choice as content remains King! Women journalists must keep pace and take advantage of AI to organise field notes, record, edit, write, distribute and monetize their content to remain relevant. IAWRTs research on the extent to which women journalists are using technology released early in the year,provided insights on how women journalists like those in purely online platforms like WIllow Health are already using technology integrating AI to automate tasks. AI offers immense tools like transcription software for interviews,generative AI to summarize lengthy reports or brainstorm catchy headlines. The presentation highlighted some international models like Schibsted, the Scandinavian media house that has automated more than 70 pc of its sports news using AI. This allows their journalists to focus on human driven narratives and investigative stories while AI handles the basics. Perhaps a great tool for women journalists struggling with work life balance owing to the demands of the digital news world. However, innovation must come with integrity. Ethical questions about AI in journalism are increasingly pressing. Who owns the content? How do we prevent algorithmic bias? What safeguards are needed? The media council of Kenya’s AI draft AI guidelines and the Kenya Bureau of Standards are in efforts to set national benchmarks. These are vital as they offer a framework to enable journalists in Kenya to embrace AI with accountability and transparency. Exciting opportunities on AI abound, there is the Kenya-UK Tech Hub AI challenge which seeks to support local innovations-including those designed by women to solve real world problems using AI. These are incubators of African led tech solutions with global relevance. The interactive session stirred curiosity as women journalists expressed eagerness to fully embrace AI tools calling for structured training programs,mentorship initiatives and partnerships with Ai developers. AI lightens the load of repetitive tasks allowing journalists to spend more time on investigative reporting, fact checking and community engagement. In a world drowning in information and misinformation,human judgement remains valuable. AI thus cannot replace humans, it only enhances the diversity in journalism. The future of journalism is not just adopting new tools but on who uses these tools, why they use them, and how they shape the stories we tell. Women journalists in Kenya are taking the challenge reporting in a brave new world in the face of AI, and unwaveringly pursuing truth, embodying the spirit of World Press Freedom Day. As we reflect on the escalating threats to journalism, let us amplify the voices of women leading the charge , support their journeys and ensure the future of journalism is one where freedom and innovation walk hand in hand. Nelly Moraa is an Independent Journalist and news entrepreneur managing integrityalliance.biz and a member of IAWRT. Her profile can be found on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelly-moraa-nyangorora-620359170?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Empowering Journalism in the Age of AI
Empowering Journalism in the Age of AI By Everlyne Wanja This year’s World Press Freedom Day event, hosted by IAWRT-Kenya, focused on a timely and transformative theme – Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of AI on Press Freedom and the Media. One key highlight came from Nelly Moraa, who shared insights from their latest research report, noting that AI is already being broadly used in newsrooms, not to replace human labour, but to enhance it. ‘AI has not come about to replace human labour. It strengthens it.’ This message resonated strongly, especially in a room filled with women journalists who were encouraged to embrace AI as a tool for more impactful reporting.The conversation especially encouraged women journalists to explore how AI can improve their efficiency and storytelling and to engage with emerging tools that make the newsroom smarter, faster, and more inclusive. AI is making its mark in the media industry in several powerful ways: • Automated Transcription: Tools like Otter.ai or Descript help journalists transcribe interviews instantly, saving time and improving accuracy.• Fact-Checking: AI-powered platforms like Full Fact or ClaimReview help detect misinformation and verify claims in real time.• Data Analysis & Visualization: AI can sift through large datasets to uncover trends for example, analyzing election results, health data, or social media behaviour.• Content Summarization: AI tools can quickly summarize long documents, helping reporters digest information faster and produce clearer stories.• Translation: AI-powered translation tools help make journalism more accessible across languages and regions. The mood in the room was clear: journalists must not fear AI; they must shape how it is used. This means embracing innovation while remaining anchored in ethics, accuracy, and the human touch that defines good journalism. The discussion made it clear that while AI is a powerful tool, it still needs human judgment, ethical reflection, and editorial oversight. Journalists remain at the core of storytelling. AI just helps them do it better and faster. The takeaway? Don’t fear the future. Learn it, use it, and shape it.
Gains And Reversals Of The Beijing Platforms For Action; 30 Years And Counting
Gains And Reversals Of The Beijing Platforms For Action; 30 Years And Counting By Rachael Nakitare The 69th CSW held in New York from 10th to 21st March 2025, is the principal global intergovernmental body dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. This year’s session was particularly significant as it took stoke of the milestones achieved and the challenges in the 30-year review and appraisal of the Beijing Platform for Action. Ms. Sima Bahous, Head of UN Women, cautioned that “misogyny is on the rise” at a time when females are bearing the brunt of multiple crises and conflict around the world. While there has been progress in advancing women’s rights, it is not fast nor far-reaching enough.” She said while emphasizing the need to include women in key decision making and peacebuilding roles. The International Association of Women in Radio and Television took particular attention to the section J of the Beijing Platform for Action; Section J1- increase the participation and access of women to expression and decision making in and through the media and new technologies of communication and Section J2- Promote a balanced and non-stereotypical portrayal of women in the media. Section J is critical for all the other areas of concern” (BPFA) because it provides the mirror for society to evaluate performance, “said Ms Sheila Katzaman, the President of IAWRT USA Chapter. IAWRT hosted a side event that evaluated the “Section J of BPFA; Gains and Reversals.” Technology and participation Social media platforms have opened up unprecedented space for women’s voices to be heard. Ms. Racheal Nakitare shared highlights from the report on the extend to which women in the media in Kenya have embraced technology”. file:///C:/Users/Admin/Downloads/Final-Report-For-Women-Journalists%20(2).pdf The study, which was collaborative effort between IAWRT Kenya and Association of Progressive Communications (APC), uses a gender lens in analysing how digital tools and platforms have empowered women journalists to profile themselves, boost their visibility overcome cultural barriers and stereotypes while navigating the predominantly male media landscape. In shedding light on the intersection of gender and technology, the findings contribute to the ongoing conversation about the representation of women across media platforms and how these perceptions affect / impact development It was however noted that the liberation of the online spaces has come with challenges which include increased technology facilitated violence against women, disinformation/ misinformation and fake news. “Women journalists are under attack in the on-line spaces throughout the world, impacting negatively on participatory rights of women and therefore ending up with news that lacks women’s perspectives. Geopolitical events require women voices’ said Professor Olga Jurasz, Professor of Law at Open University in the United Kingdom and Director, Centre for protecting Women online. Technology and especially social media platforms have become powerful avenues of advocacy and mobilization especially by citizen journalists. The Genz demonstrations witnessed in Kenya in June 2024 were basically coordinated virtually using the social media.” Said Ms. Nakitare urged Journalists to embrace technology and use it to enhance their professional work, thus amplify the voices of women across the world. Down memory lane Birgitte Jallov, Director, Empower House based in Denmark attended the women’s conference held in Beijing meeting 30 years ago and shared her experience of the role of media as envisaged in the women’s conferences held in Mexico City in 1975, Copenhagen in 1980, and Nairobi in 1985 where media was to catapulting all the other sectors of development. It was not until 1995 in Beijing that media was recognized as an entity in itself and so called for attention to women’s representation in and through the media “she said. Birgette has spent years setting up community radios across the world especially the global south and appreciates the importance and relevance of the radio as main source of information for the rural folk especially women and children. She stressed the need to have women own the radios especially with the new technologies that allow smaller portable radios including online podcasts. The power of radio to rural communities cannot be overemphasized.” She noted. The meeting also noted the complete lack of progression on section J 2 where women are still portrayed in their stereotypical roles. Hawa Taylor, Global advocate for Youth empowerment and, former employee of the United Nations Communications department observed that much as the Global Communication department of the United Nations is headed by a woman, women are generally lacking in decision making positions. “We must take responsibility and ensure women in the media especially those who appear on Television and other visual platforms are seen and appreciated for the value they bring to the table rather than their physical appearance” she lamented. More inclusion Despite the fact that a record 5845 members of civil society attended the CSW69, many more were locked out due to the complexities of the visa application and issuance processes. Radi Ali, Youth officer from Syria decried the “discrimination against LGBTQ and the gruelling immigration processes.” Its location at the United Nations Headquarters presented significant barriers to participants who had registered to attend the conference. APC created a feedback board dubbed “Access Denied” which attracted various reactions from the public. Some of the suggestions that came through the feedback board included relocating the CSW venue to United Nations offices in countries with easier access by all participating parties. While adding their voices to suggestions for revitalization of the CSW, some youths proposed discussions shifting onto the digital space. The Secretary General’s priority sessions for the next four years will include transferring caregiving systems, advancing gender equality, accelerating the implementation of agenda 2030 and strengthening women access to justice. This calls for deliberate and direct participation of women within the civil society, the engine that drives CSW forward. IAWRT-KE Team Rachael Nakitare Panelists IAWRT Panelists Nakitare presenting Plenary Plenary
How Technology Is Changing The Media Landscape
By Lucy Kilalo Technology is reshaping the way stories are told, shared and distributed calling for the media industry to be more creative and innovative to remain afloat, a new report has shown.While the industry continues to evolve, media professionals must stay agile, ethical, and informed, embracing new tools while ensuring that their work remains grounded in the values that uphold the integrity of journalism.The study shows, that technology is the key to unlocking new possibilities, and is the backbone that drives creativity, efficiency, and innovation in the media industry.Whether it is hardware or software, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping how journalists report news, how stories are shared, and how media companies adapt to changing demands. These were among the findings of a report titled “The Extent to Which Women in Mainstream Media have embraced Use of Technology” that was commissioned by the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) and Association of Progressive Communication (APC).The report shows that the media industry relies on a vast range of technology to keep things running smoothly. Some of the most common hardware tools include: computers, smartphones and drones, Yolo Box Live Kit, wearables (earphones and lapel mics) among others that help journalists to stay connected, capture real- time footage, making it easier to go live from anywhere in the world. Smartphones are also tools of trade for journalists that have become indispensable in the modern newsroom, enabling journalists to stay productive no matter where they are.The report, notes, that while hardware tools are the foundation, it is the software that truly brings the media industry into the 21st century. Editing software, collaboration tools, and social media platforms are just a few examples of how technology is streamlining content creation and distribution.The report also shows that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into content creation is one of the major advancements in most media houses. The study shows that some media houses have begun utilizing AI to generate social media posts, automate certain editing processes, and even personalize content for specific audiences.However, as with any powerful tool, most media houses are aware that they need to put guidelines in place on how the new technologies are integrated in their daily work.In addition to AI, cloud computing has also revolutionized how media companies store and manage content. Some of the key informants in the study indicate that gone are the days when a hard drive crash could mean the loss of hours or days of work. “With the technology world, you can also save your work. Previously if a computer in which you had saved your recorded content crashed, you had no backup. But nowadays you can have a backup of whatever information that you had. For example, if it was played on air and was stored on cloud servers, you have a reference of it,” notes one of the key informants in the study. Cloud storage has proven to be a game changer for data protection in the media industry. Before the rise of cloud technology, losing a computer or having a system failure often meant the irreversible loss of content. With cloud computing, media professionals can back up everything—from recorded interviews to broadcast content—on secure cloud servers. This means that even if the worst happens, the data can be restored with minimal hassle. Cloud storage also enables better collaboration among team members. Journalists working across different locations can access and edit content in real-time, ensuring faster turnaround times and more efficient workflows. In an industry where timing is everything, this is crucial for staying competitive and relevant. The study highlights that the role of technology in the media is only going to grow as new advancements emerge. Real-time collaboration across time zones, and instant global distribution of news—is now a reality. Media companies are increasingly using these tools not just for efficiency, but to enhance the quality and impact of their work. The technological advancements also shows how social media platforms have been embraced for storytelling. Tools like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok allow journalists to reach vast audiences instantly, democratizing the flow of information and giving voices to stories that might have otherwise gone unheard. The ability to measure audience engagement in real time with analytics tools gives media companies valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t, allowing them to refine their strategies spontaneously. However, though the rapid advancement of technology has revolutionized how the media industry works, it has its challenges, which call for greater responsibility amongst all players. Ethical considerations are more important than ever, especially with the rise of AI and content automation. Media outlets must ensure they maintain transparency, avoid misinformation, and protect their audience’s trust and uphold the integrity of journalism while embracing these new technologies, the study shows.
Input of Media Houses in Supporting Women Journalists in Technology Adoption
By Stephanie Ayieta Media houses play a significant role in helping journalists adapt to technology. Research by IAWRT Kenya found that the level of support by media organizations varies from one media house to another. The support manifests in various ways including:Paying for software subscriptions to help journalists and technical staff access premium services and versions of the media tools they use to source for, edit, and disseminate or broadcast content. In the technology era, we have seen the automation of tasks that previously consumed time and needed some level of expertise. All it takes now is subscribing to essential software licenses, including Adobe Creative Suite or Canva, for creative projects is necessary. AI tools have been made available to perform tasks such as Video previewing, Editing, Captioning, Generating Own Sound, Creating AI-generated images and videos, and Deep Research among many other things. Some of the well-performing AI tools performing these functions are: Chat GPT, Gemini, and Claude (Chatbots that perform various tasks including but not limited to: deep research, video interpretation, and specific job strategies as prompted). There are AI search engines that are helping journalists maximize SEO like Perplexity, Phind, and Liner. For image generation, there is Mid-journey, Re-craft, and Leonardo. Some video generation tools are: Runway, Sora (by ChatGPT), and Adobe Firefly. Editing has been made easy thanks to tools such as ADOBE, Descript, and Capcut. For digital content, journalists can use AI clone-making tools such as HeyGen and Synthesia. Opus Clip helps in trimming long videos to short clips for social media. For Voice editing, there are a variety of tools offered such as Turbo Scribe and Transcripter for Transcribing. Eleven Labs is best for voice cloning and generating sound effects, and Alitu for voice editing. Digital media tools that are great for productivity and workflow efficiency are Zapier and make.com. These are automation tools, which perform all tasks from scripting to posting on social media. Most of these tools have a free package. However, to access the efficient services offered which are valuable to journalists, payments have to be made. The average price for a basic package is $20. It might therefore be costly for an individual to access all of the above-mentioned software tools hence the need for the media houses to step in. Training and Capacity Building is the other form of support the organizations can provide. This is through regular training sessions on emerging technologies, software, and digital tools. They can encourage access to online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and Coursera for skill development. Hosting workshops or webinars on integrating technology into daily workflows, such as video editing, content management systems, or analytics helps to empower its employees. Most media houses have in-house workshops to train journalists on the available technological tools – both hardware and software – for their journalistic work and content creation and dissemination. The adoption of the software requires compatible machines. The company therefore needs to purchase the latest tools and machines like desktops and high-performance laptops that are to perform the various tasks, this also includes purchasing digital audio recording gadgets as well as editing software. Creating a conducive environment to allow journalists to apply the technological skills acquired is necessary, as it will foster a culture of experimentation. For instance, allowing teams to experiment with emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and AI-driven analytics without fear of failure. The media houses should also push for a Digital-First Culture. This encourages innovation by prioritizing digital strategies for convergence, such as podcasts, live streams, and short-form videos. Providing platforms and incentives to explore new technologies like AI for content generation or data visualization tools for storytelling. They should also be willing to embrace remote and hybrid work by Investing in cloud-based collaboration tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom to enable seamless remote work. Mentorship and Peer Learning are key to the successful transition of journalists to technology. Encouraging mentorship programs where tech-savvy team members assist others in adopting and maximizing the use of technology will not only help build unity and cohesion but is also sustainable. This is achieved through fostering an environment where knowledge sharing is part of the organizational culture. Actively seeking feedback from employees on the challenges they face with technology helps boost the organization’s systems. This facilitates the Improvement of tools, training, and processes based on the feedback received to ensure user-friendly solutions. Policies need to be implemented to bridge digital gaps. Such policies address the digital divide by offering accessible devices and reliable internet support, especially for field teams. This can be realized through providing Wi-Fi, airtime, and data bundles where necessary so that journalists can keep in touch with newsmakers, and carry out proper research, be it online or offline, for their projects. It also includes advocating for inclusive technology adoption by considering the specific needs of diverse staff. It includes offering unconditional permission to employees invited to attend workshops organized by media partners and stakeholders for technology growth. These solutions need concerted efforts to successfully support women journalists in technology adoption.
Bridging the Digital Gender Gap in Kenyan Media
By Everlyne Wanja Muriithi A Closer Look at Men’s and Women’s Representation in Digital Platforms In recent years, Kenya’s media landscape has undergone a seismic shift towards digital platforms, fundamentally altering how news and information are created, shared, and consumed. This transformation has created opportunities for both male and female journalists, yet a persistent gender gap remains in terms of representation and placement. A closer examination of the current state of digital media reveals striking disparities, shaping not only who tells the stories but also whose voices are amplified. Gender Representation in Digital News PlatformsThe digital revolution was expected to level the playing field, but research suggests otherwise. A 2023 study by the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications found that women are still significantly underrepresented in key news segments. In fact, 23% of the sampled days had no coverage of women in Kenyan newspapers at all. This lack of visibility extends to digital platforms, where male perspectives dominate, particularly in politically and economically driven stories. Digital media is meant to be more inclusive, yet the absence of gender-balanced reporting suggests that traditional biases have merely been transferred online. Male journalists continue to hold prominent roles in shaping narratives, while women are often sidelined or confined to specific beats like human-interest stories, health, and lifestyle features. Audience Engagement: A Gendered PerspectiveAnother key aspect of this disparity is audience engagement. According to the 2023/2024 State of the Media Report by the Media Council of Kenya, newspaper readership is significantly higher among men (33%) than women (18%). While these numbers pertain to print media, they reflect a broader trend that extends to digital consumption patterns. With digital news platforms predominantly catering to male audiences, the cycle of exclusion continues, and content is produced with a male-dominated audience in mind, reinforcing the gender gap in both consumption and representation.Social media and alternative digital platforms could serve as spaces for women journalists to assert their presence, but challenges persist. Algorithms tend to favour virality over diversity, meaning that stories told by women, especially those on gender-sensitive issues, may not gain as much traction as male-driven narratives. Challenges Facing Female Journalists in the Digital RealmSeveral factors contribute to the underrepresentation of women in digital media, including:Cultural Barriers: Deep-seated societal norms often discourage women from pursuing leadership roles in journalism, leading to fewer women in decision-making positions.Limited Access to Training: Many female journalists lack specialized training in digital storytelling, multimedia production, and data-driven journalism, which are increasingly essential in the digital space.Online Harassment: Female journalists are disproportionately targeted by cyberbullying and online harassment, making digital platforms a hostile environment for their professional growth. Fewer Career Advancement Opportunities: Gender biases within media organizations mean that men are more likely to be promoted to leadership roles in digital media, further limiting women’s influence in shaping digital content. Towards a More Inclusive Digital Media LandscapeTo bridge this gap, stakeholders in the media industry must take deliberate steps to foster gender inclusivity in digital journalism. Here’s how we can move forward: Capacity Building: Investing in digital literacy and specialized training programs for female journalists will empower them to thrive in digital spaces. Initiatives that provide mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities can also help level the playing field. Policy Advocacy: Media organizations must develop and enforce policies that promote gender equity in content creation, editorial leadership, and digital storytelling. Gender-sensitive policies should address online harassment, ensuring that female journalists feel safe and supported. Encouraging Diverse Content: Newsrooms and content creators should actively prioritize diverse storytelling that amplifies women’s voices in political, economic, and technology-driven discussions rather than relegating them to softer beats. Audience Awareness & Support: Readers and viewers have a role to play in demanding diverse and inclusive content. By actively engaging with and supporting women-led media initiatives, audiences can influence editorial decisions and content direction. Final Thoughts: Representation MattersThe digital space holds immense potential for inclusive storytelling, but without deliberate efforts to address gender disparities, women will continue to be marginalized in mainstream media. Bridging this digital gender gap is not just about fairness. It’s about ensuring a more diverse, balanced, and representative media landscape that benefits everyone. The future of digital media in Kenya must be one where men and women have equal opportunities to shape narratives, tell stories, and influence public discourse. It’s time to turn advocacy into action.