The government is laying the ground to shift radio frequencies from FM and AM frequencies to digital systems.
In a statement on Thursday, June 6, the government said the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) will soon effect the decision, saying the transition is necessitated by the fact that the FM frequencies are insufficient. The digital system is unlimited.
The Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy said that the move aims to address the problem of limited FM frequencies and enable the adoption of better digital audio technologies.
According to the latest data from the CAK, Kenya has a total of 227 radio stations, 172 of which are commercial stations, while 55 are community stations, all using the FM transmission system.
The expected shift from the FM system to the digital system means that the stations can leverage advanced broadcasting systems, such as Digital Audio Broadcasting, Online Radio- using apps and websites- and satellite radio.
On the other hand, this system allows listeners to experience more enhanced features like better sound quality, more station choices, in addition to other extra features such as song information, live updates, and emergency alerts.
However, for a listener to access digital sound broadcasting, one will need to acquire digital radio receivers or use internet-enabled phones or other smart devices.
The ministry asserted that the move will be fundamental in improving the overall broadcasting experience, in addition to catalyzing the transformation of the country's journey towards a modernized digital economy.
"Meanwhile, in the broadcasting sector, the Authority is finalising a regulatory framework for digital sound broadcasting, an initiative designed to tackle the increasing scarcity of FM spectrum and facilitate smoother adoption of digital audio technologies," the Ministry stated.
"These reforms mark a pivotal step in Kenya’s journey toward a modern, inclusive, and innovation-driven digital economy," the ministry added.
The Ministry has further stated that it is in the process, in collaboration with CAK, of reviewing the Kenya Information and Communications Act (KICA) of 1998, along with 15 associated regulations that will enable the country to cope with the rapidly evolving ICT sector.
According to the Ministry, the reform will be foundational in expanding the regulatory oversight over new media platforms and other emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, and erecting stronger competition safeguards in the country's ICT ecosystem.
The Ministry has further asserted that the review of the law will further strengthen collaboration between communication institutions such as the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), and the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO).
“The review of the Act and its accompanying regulations will not only strengthen market competition but also provide robust mechanisms to address harmful online content,” the Ministry said.
