By Peter Ochieng
Agnes Kalekye has assumed her new role as Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) Managing Director.
Speaking on Monday, Kalekye pledged to ensure that under her watch, the State Broadcaster will emerge as a beacon of excellence, a champion of diversity and a trusted companion for generations to come, through fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.
“We pledge to be transparent, accountable and responsible in our operations in ensuring that our resources are utilized efficiently and effectively,” she said.
“We cannot fulfill this mandate on our own without your participation and feedback. I encourage the public to engage with us, share your ideas and hold us accountable.”
She becomes the first woman to hold the position of KBC MD. She takes over from Paul Macharia, who has held the position in an acting capacity since December 2023.
Macharia took charge after former acting MD Samuel Maina was fired in December 2023 for committing the government to pay over Sh750billion in and arbitration without Ministry’s approval.
Her contract runs for three years.
Kalekye’s appointment was confirmed by Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, Eliud Owalo on Friday, last week.
“The Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, Eliud Owalo, FIHRM, EGH has appointed Ms. Agnes Kalekye Nguna as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC),” read part of the statement from the CS.
“This appointment, which is effective immediately, will run for a period of three years,” the statements added.
Prior to her appointment, Agnes Kalekye was the Chief Operating Officer at The Star Publications. She is also the outgoing Chairperson of the Media Owners Association (MOA).
“We wish Ms. Nguna well in her new role and the Ministry looks forward to her working closely with the Board of Directors in the revitalisation of the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation as envisaged,” the CS said.
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation is the state-run media organisation. It broadcasts in English and Swahili, as well as in most local languages of Kenya.
There has been efforts by the Kenya Kwanza administration to revive the broadcaster, after years of being rated below several privately owned media house.