Tens of journalists at Mediamax Network Limited are facing job losses after the company’s management issued a redundancy notice to staff.
A notice seen by Kenyans.co.ke and signed by Chief Executive Officer Ken Ngaruiya indicated that the decision was part of a strategic restructuring and reorganisation aimed at improving operational efficiency in response to shifting market conditions.
The media house cited challenges in the macro business environment, rapid digital advancements, declining business volumes, and a shrinking client base as key reasons behind the decision.
"Mediamax Network Limited is undertaking a strategic restructuring and reorganisation of its business operations to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness in response to evolving market dynamics, including digital transformation, innovation, shifting client needs, and the introduction of punitive regulations by the Government of Kenya affecting the media industry," the notice stated.
According to the company, the restructuring was further necessitated by persistent issues within the media sector, such as delays in payment of pending bills by both the national and county governments and the national government’s decision to single-source advertising through one media entity.
The company also cited the imposition of strict regulations on betting and gambling advertising as another contributing factor to the financial strain.
Affected staff were given a one-month notice effective July 15, 2025, meaning the decision on their employment terms and fate will be decided by August 15, 2025.
However, the company revealed that some staff may be retained following a reorganisation process, which will include a staff evaluation and optimisation exercise.
"This may involve re-aligning operations, streamlining staffing levels, and consolidating roles within the organization. Unfortunately, these measures may lead to re-alignments and redundancies that may impact employees across various departments," the notice added.
Mediamax assured employees that the redundancy process would comply with Section 40 of the Employment Act, 2007, as well as individual employment contracts.
Employees declared redundant will receive their terminal dues in accordance with the law, including salary for days worked, notice pay, accrued leave, and severance pay calculated at 15 days for each completed year of service.
Any dues owed to the company by the affected employees will be deducted from their final payments, as per standard practice.
Mediamax owns several media outlets, including K24 TV, Kameme TV, Radio Milele, Kameme FM, Mayian FM, Emoo FM, Msenangu FM, Meru FM, and the People Daily newspaper.
