2023 Kenya Media Landscape Report- January-July|Reelanalytics
Kenya's media scene is buzzing with change.Recent events and developments have woven a narrative that reflects the nation's diverse and ever-evolving dynamics. In H1 2023, advertising spending in Kenya was KES 62 Billion driven by sectors like Betting & Gambling, Media, Finance, Education, and Agriculture.
The entrance of a new media player, Cape Media led to a shift of presenters from Radio Maisha such as Alex Mwakideu, Ali Kauleni Hassan,Lynda Oriaso, and others who are hosting various shows. Simultaneously, the nation has witnessed significant social and political events, including nationwide anti-government protests led by Azimio la Umoja, spotlighting concerns over the high cost of living and issues related to electoral injustice.
This report sheds light on recent trends in advertising expenditure, publicity highlights, and the prominence of certain sectors and brands within the industry.
Advertising Spends Increase
The overall advertising expenditure in Kenya increased by 2% when compared to the second half of 2022. Betting and gambling commanded the biggest share of the ad spend by industry-leading at 28.8%, media at 27%, finance at 13%, and communications at 8.4% respectively.
Beverage Sector Prominence
The beverage sector records a 4% increase in advertising expenditure compared to H2 2022, with East African Breweries Limited (EABL) holding the highest share of advertising space. Coke Real Magic emerges as the dominant brand in the Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising segment leading with 56 campaigns.
Ad Spends Distribution
TV takes 61% of the ad spends distribution, attributed to costly rate cards compared to radio at 38% and print at 1% respectively. Media and Betting campaigns dominated the top 10 list.MultiChoice Kenya was the top spender for a consecutive half-year period. They had a high volume of campaigns on their suite of channels.
Kenya Publicity Highlights
In Kenya, significant events and developments have unfolded in recent times.
Azimio la Umoja led nationwide anti-government protests, highlighting grievances over the high cost of living and concerns about electoral injustice.
The Supreme Court made a landmark decision by upholding the right of the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC) to register, despite earlier opposition from Kenya's NGO Coordinating Board.
US First Lady Jill Biden visited Kenya for a three-day mission to address the drought crisis affecting the Horn of Africa. Additionally, Kenya implemented substantial tax changes through the Finance Act of 2023, which included the imposition of income tax, VAT, excise tax, and various fees and penalties.
President William Ruto appointed Kamau Thugge, the former Treasury Principal Secretary, as the new CBK Governor.
Lastly, Kenya mourned the passing of former Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha, who died at the age of 71. These events collectively reflect the diverse and dynamic challenges and developments within the nation.
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