This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
July 1, 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to the media industry, with Nation Media Group (NMG) being the latest to announce job cuts as it seeks to digitize its operations.
According to Clifford Machoka, Head of Corporate & Regulatory Affairs at NMG, the decision to reduce the workforce was made with utmost respect for employees and in accordance with Kenyan laws.
"This exercise will be carried out with utmost due respect to our employees and within the Kenyan laws. We will strive to provide all the necessary support to help them manage the transition," Machoka said.
The move is part of NMG's efforts to accelerate its digital transition process, which has become essential in the wake of declining print newspaper sales and advertisers' preference for digital platforms.
Other Kenyan media houses, including Royal Media Services, Mediamax, and Standard Group, have also laid off some of their workers in an effort to cut expenses.
As the media industry continues to grapple with the effects of COVID-19, NMG's decision to digitize its operations is a reflection of the need for media houses to adapt to the changing landscape.
