Mediamax Network Limited has announced yet another restructuring, marking its sixth redundancy exercise in just four years. The move comes as the media giant grapples with a tough economic environment, shrinking advertising revenues, and shifting audience habits in an increasingly digital-first world.
The company, which operates a diverse portfolio including K24 TV, People Daily, Milele FM, Kameme FM, and other radio stations, says the latest round of job cuts is part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations and remain financially sustainable.
In an internal memo to staff, Mediamax’s management stated that the redundancy was a “necessary but difficult decision” aimed at safeguarding the company’s long-term stability. While exact figures on the number of employees affected have not been disclosed, sources indicate that both editorial and non-editorial departments will be impacted.
Media analysts argue that the Mediamax redundancy mirrors challenges faced across Kenya’s broadcasting industry. Rising operational costs, a slump in corporate advertising, and fierce competition from online platforms have left traditional media houses struggling to adapt. In some cases, layoffs have been accompanied by a shift to leaner teams and increased reliance on freelancers.
For employees, the announcement has brought uncertainty and anxiety, with some expressing concerns about the lack of job security in the sector. The Kenya Union of Journalists has previously urged media owners to explore alternatives to redundancy, such as retraining or redeployment, before cutting jobs.
This latest Mediamax redundancy also comes amid broader debates on how Kenyan media companies can innovate and monetise content in a competitive digital era. Without significant transformation, experts warn that more restructuring could be inevitable — not only for Mediamax but for other major players in the industry as well.
