A new report indicates that media freedom in Kenya is at its lowest point in over two decades, raising significant concerns about the safety of journalists and the overall deteriorating environment for independent media.

• Press freedom globally is at its lowest level in over 20 years, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
• Journalists in Kenya continue to face assault, arrests, and intimidation while performing their duties.
• The challenges highlighted serve as an indictment of authorities worldwide and underscore the need to protect press freedom for democracy and good governance.

A Media Council of Kenya report indicates that Standard Group PLC's media platforms remain a trusted source of news for Kenyans, despite shifts in media consumption habits.

• 18% of Kenyans reported reading The Standard newspaper in 2025.
• Standard Group PLC, including KTN News and Radio Maisha, is ranked among the most trusted information sources by 8% of Kenyans.
• The report also highlights a significant digital shift, with 39% of Kenyans now getting news from social media, and raises concerns about a 63% digital literacy gap regarding AI-generated content.

Journalists' safety and declining public trust in Kenyan media were highlighted during World Press Freedom Day commemorations, amidst rising threats to press freedom.

• A Media Council of Kenya report shows 54% of Kenyans perceive government reporting as unfair, up from 26.4% in 2024.
• The National Police Service pledged to ensure journalists' safety, especially ahead of the 2027 General Election, acknowledging past violations.
• Journalists face increasing hostility, legal pressures from the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act, and economic instability within newsrooms.

A U.S. envoy has urged Kenyan media to uphold strong ethical standards and transparency to safeguard public trust, especially in the age of AI-generated content.

• U.S. Chief of Mission Susan Burns emphasized the importance of disclosing all external financial influences on news content.
• Burns warned against practices like undisclosed paid content and "brown envelope journalism," which compromise editorial independence and trust.
• The call comes ahead of World Press Freedom Day, highlighting Kenya's constitutional guarantee of press freedom.