- The Standard Group has shut down its KTN News channel, effective July 5, as part of a significant cost-cutting measure
- The channel’s programming will be absorbed into KTN Home, with the closure coming just after the company announced layoffs for 300 employees
- This move is part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at stabilizing the company and addressing ongoing financial challenges
The Standard Group has shut down KTN News, effective July 5.
The decision to cease operations at the 24-hour news channel, which was launched in July 2015, follows the recent announcement of layoffs affecting 300 employees as part of a broader cost-cutting strategy.
KTN News programming, primarily focused on news and features, will now be integrated into KTN Home, the company’s flagship station.
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The closure is part of a major restructuring effort aimed at streamlining operations and addressing the company’s financial struggles.
As part of this restructuring, 200 employees, including senior editors, have already been sent on leave, with many not expected to return.
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Launched with the promise of revolutionizing news coverage, KTN News had aimed to offer comprehensive and round-the-clock news in both English and Kiswahili.
However, despite its initial success, it struggled to achieve financial stability. The company is now expected to continue its restructuring, with potential future closures of additional TV and radio stations, including KTN Farmers and KTN Burudani.
The Standard Group’s management attributes these drastic measures to challenging market conditions and evolving media consumption trends.
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New CEO Marion Gathoga-Mwangi, appointed on July 4, is tasked with steering the company through this turbulent period, following a series of high-level changes and interim leadership.