A new report analyzing media coverage of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Kenya between October 2023 and June 2024 has revealed regional disparities and gaps in reporting. While urban centers like Nairobi and Mombasa receive extensive coverage, counties such as Garissa and Trans-Nzoia remain largely underreported, raising concerns over equitable media focus.
The study by media researchers examined SRHR narratives across print, television, radio, and online platforms. Print media emerged as the dominant source, accounting for 49% of the coverage, followed by television and radio at 17% each, while online platforms contributed 15%. Despite television and radio being the primary sources of information for most Kenyans, their limited coverage of SRHR issues restricts public access to critical health information.
The report identified teenage pregnancy as the most frequently covered SRHR issue, followed by comprehensive sexuality education (CSE), abortion, and contraceptive use. However, topics such as gender-based violence (GBV), female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) received minimal attention, reflecting a gap in media priorities.
Key figures shaping SRHR narratives include political leaders, religious groups, human rights organizations, and the judiciary. Political statements and judicial rulings influence media framing, often determining the extent and nature of coverage. The report highlights that while some leaders advocate for progressive SRHR policies, others reinforce conservative positions that hinder reproductive rights advancements.
The study further reveals that media coverage of SRHR tends to be reactive, driven by official campaigns and events rather than investigative journalism. The framing of stories varies, with narratives ranging from personal and emotional accounts to legal, moral, and human rights perspectives. The report urges journalists to adopt a more balanced approach and enhance investigative reporting to highlight systemic issues affecting SRHR.
To address these gaps, the report recommends increasing SRHR coverage in underrepresented regions, training journalists on comprehensive SRHR reporting, and engaging policymakers and civil society in framing media narratives. It also calls for stronger government commitment to supporting media freedom and ensuring accurate, evidence-based reporting on reproductive health issues.
