Kenya’s Nation Media Group shuts down Rwanda’s KFM Radio

KFM radio presenters Arthur and Connie. NMG announced the immediate closure of the Radio.

There was an abrupt shock across the country after signals of 98.7 Kfm Radio went off after Rwanda Today show hosted by Ange Soubirous Tambineza. Most listeners thought it’s a normal signal loss.

But a few hours later, a release from Nation Media Group, the owners of the Radio announced the immediate closure of the Radio.

According, the group the closure which is affecting the company’s radios in Kenya and Rwanda is aimed transforming the media house into a 21^st century digital content company embracing a digital/mobile business model.

“In the past few months, we have embarked on implementing a new strategic direction that ensures we secure our current business and position of the organization to win in the future,” said Clifford Machoka, head of corporate and regulatory affairs.

To achieve this, Clifford says the organization decided to rationalize its broadcasting division consolidating their two television (NTV and NTV Uganda) stations into a one multi lingual station including permanent shutdown of radio stations.

“We are also scaling down our traditional radio business in Kenya (NationFM, Qfm) and Rwanda (KFM),” he said in a statement.

He adds, “We will keep a live signal and maintain our online presence in line with our digital strategy,” allaying fears that the company plans to pullout of Rwanda business completely.

The closure which follows last year’s laying off of some staff at both radio and Newspaper section in Rwanda is likely to affect over 15 employees who have been working on the radio, with Clifford emphasizing they will support them in the process.

“We will strive to provide all necessary support to help them manage through this transition,” he said.

Apart from the radio, the company runs Rwanda Today, a print and online newspaper for Rwanda and the East African which will keep running.