Nairobi

K24 TV remains on air, despite widespread social media rumours this week that it had shut down. In fact, the station’s parent company, Mediamax Network Limited, is embarking on a wave of job cuts—but it says the channel will stay live.

“Fake news alert!” K24’s official channels posted on Friday. “Get the latest news across our social pages and website.” The station had flagged posts claiming it had closed after 17 years of operation. Scrolling through the newsroom’s studio photos, it’s clear transmissions continue.

K24 first aired in 2008 and, in 2018, became the first Kenyan broadcaster to stream its news live online. Today, it remains widely watched across channels and social media platforms

The rumours come amid Mediamax’s latest restructuring drive. The company, which also owns People Daily and Milele FM, sent a 30-day redundancy notice to staff last month. CEO Ken Ngaruiya said the changes are needed as the media landscape evolves—digital disruption, tighter advertising margins, and shifts in government policy, especially around advertising regulations, have all hurt business.

“Mediamax Network Limited is undertaking a strategic restructuring… to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness,” Ngaruiya wrote. He acknowledged the challenges, including reduced client base and rising operational pressures.

The company assured staff that the redundancy exercise will follow legal requirements. Employees will receive compensation, notice pay, and accrued benefits as outlined in the Kenyan Employment Act.

Why It Matters

False reports of a shutdown sparked concern—and overshadowed a more pressing issue: the shrinking of a leading media house. K24 TV’s denial underscores how quickly misinformation can spread, especially against the backdrop of economic stress and industry upheaval. Mediamax, like many media firms, faces the dual challenge of maintaining journalists’ livelihoods while adapting to a changing market.