Kenyans continue to turn to radio primarily for information, with news and current affairs emerging as the most preferred content, according to new audience data released by the Communications Authority of Kenya.
The findings, captured in the July–September 2025 audience measurement and industry trends report, highlight radio’s enduring role as a trusted source of information across the country.
The data shows that 38.62 per cent of listeners tune in mainly for news and current affairs. This places informative programming well ahead of all other genres, underlining radio’s importance in shaping public discourse, especially during periods of political, economic, and social change.
Analysts say the high appetite for news reflects Kenyans’ reliance on radio for timely updates, analysis, and civic engagement.
Entertainment and talk shows rank second at 23.61 per cent, demonstrating the medium’s dual role as both an information hub and a platform for dialogue and leisure. These programmes often blend humour, debate, and social commentary, making them particularly popular with urban and younger audiences.
Religious and inspirational content accounts for 9.68 per cent of listening preferences, reflecting the strong place of faith-based programming in Kenyan society.
Music follows at 7.09 per cent, while sports content attracts 3.73 per cent of listeners, indicating more niche but still significant audiences.
Educational and informative programmes stand at 2.03 per cent, while lifestyle and culture content records the lowest share at 1.39 per cent. Despite their smaller audiences, experts note these genres play a critical role in public education and cultural preservation.
Overall, the report underscores radio’s continued relevance in Kenya’s media landscape, particularly as a trusted channel for news, conversation, and community connection in an increasingly digital age.
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