Kenya's mediascape is, without a doubt, undergoing far-reaching changes in several respects. The vibrancy of Kenya's media is a mark of our successful march towards inclusive development revolving around information sharing, fostering of democratic credentials and creating a platform through which citizens can exercise the same.
Naturally, a vibrant media is the hallmark of accountability. Its independence is principally materialized on the extent of its engagement or, put it differently, on the degree of its role as Peoples' Watchdog. This undertaking thrusts huge responsibilities on the shoulders of the media.
From this foregoing, it is clear to us that our media still has a long way to go to prove its place. This is not to negate the positive strides achieved so far. It is to help us gauge our performance in order to be able to prescribe the needed antidote - at least for the common good of Kenya and her people.
It ought to be underlined that a media's 'vibrancy' does not automatically indicate its 'independence'. Vibrancy is more concerned with the media's own benefits and progress. Independence, on the other hand, is a mark of uprightness of the media in advancing public interest. It is its ability to speak out that which may be detrimental to what is deemed as media's own benefits.
It is simply the capacity of media outlets to risk their own interests in order to advance good governance, accountability and to speak for those unable to speak for themselves - the marginalized, victims of state apathy and all the victims of ills that dot this great land.
Several studies have demonstrated the underpinnings of a vibrant media as compared to what will be considered as independent media. One, the fallacy that a vibrant media translates to independence of the media is a myth that must be debunked by all.
Two, many media houses are big players in what is commonly referred to as ' balancing act'. This is what they do. They selectively pick what to (or not to) 'expose' and where not to 'touch' on the basis of repercussions - suspension of advert contracts, over-regulation by the State bodies as a means to emasculate the media, or in worst cases, an attempt to close down entire media houses - that could fly their way.
Three, in order to look 'good', some media houses allegedly tamper with their news content to 'smooth-sell' a version of a story that appeals to the ears of those bankrolling their operations.
This explains why certain established news outlets rarely broadcast/publish news that could stand out as 'negatively parading' your business/political associates.
Isn't this what makes Kenya's media 'vibrant' and not 'independent'?
How then can we boast of an independent media when it is wholly grounded on the quick sand of double speak?
Methinks there is a greater need to rethink our parameters of measuring the independence of our media. It remains to be seen whether the much touted media freedom in Kenya has actually been translated to freedom for all Kenyans.
This brings me to my central point. To inject 'independent blood' into Kenya’s media, a black sheep is highly needed. We are victims of repetitive process that finds no usefulness in seeking new ways of doing things. Mark you; this is not just confined to the media alone. The problem dots all our private and public corridors.
This is why, I think, 'The Star' is showing the way. Reading through the paper paints an image of media outlet that charts its own way by revealing what is commonly murmured and forgotten. It is straight in its language. It sees no reason to zigzag around an issue.
Though many may view this as an attempt by the paper to be relevant in a mediascape characterized by intense patronage, I believe what its editors are doing is wholly for the good of this nation. For it serves no purpose being 'good' to a select few and sidelining a whole population.
Media outlets have the discretion to determine what they put across to their readers/listeners/viewers but this discretion must be tinged with the long-term aspirations of the nation.
'The Star' Newspaper is actually leading the way in making these aspirations real.
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