The role of women in the growth of media in Kenya: A study of trends and influencing factors among female staff of Kenya broadcasting corporation (1990 -2008)

Abstract

Kenya's media industry has grown tremendously since post independence era. Similar to other professional fields, women have played a significant contribution to the growth of Kenya's media industry despite various hurdles. Women journalists and media practitioners have contributed immensely to the growth of the media industry in Kenya but their role is not fully recognized and appreciated. This study had one overall objective: to assess the role of women in the growth of media in Kenya since 1990 to 2008 with particular focus on female employees of KBC. From the research findings, it is clear that the number of women in the Communication field has increased dramatically, and it continues to grow. On average the number of female employees outweighs the number of male employees at KBC. Despite this, the number of women in top management level is minimal. Women have influence on editorial content with particular emphasis on human rights issues and developihertt matters affecting society. The findings - clearly indicate that women's contribution in the growth of media has been consistent over the years due to their participation in fields that were otherwise considered too technical and difficult. Respondents made several recommendations and the most important they noted was access to training followed by equal promotion opportunities with their male counterparts and good working conditions. Respondents also noted that Kenya is generally well advanced in the media industry as compared to other

African countries. The age of women joining the media has been reducing with younger women finding it a favorable career choice, but opting out to less demanding careers as they approach their 30s. This study confirms the role women journalists have played in ensuring development matters are highlighted through the media; hence they have influenced policy decisions on matters such as child labor, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), forced marriages and gender discrimina tion.