The Nation Media Group (NMG) has rationalised its broadcasting division, scaling down its traditional radio business in Kenya, Nation FM and QFM, and Rwanda’s KFM.

The three radio stations will maintain an online presence from Thursday, June 30, while QTV will be merged with NTV, for a richer programming mix.

NMG says it has embarked on implementing a new strategic direction that will ensure that the company secures its current business and position it to win in the future.

It says the move was prompted by changing trends, and the need to transform the company into a modern digital content company.

'Live signal'

“We wish to announce the rationalisation of our broadcasting division, we will keep a live signal and maintain an online presence in line with our digital strategy, the rationalisation steps are effective as of today, June 30, 2016,” a statement from NMG’s Corporate and Regulatory Affairs department notes.

NMG Group Chief Executive Officer Joe Muganda says the sudden changes are expected to deliver value to its audiences as well as meet their expectations.

He was, however, remorseful that the new changes would result in job redundancies in the broadcasting division.

“We do recognise that today’s announcement will be difficult for the affected employees and their families, we will strive to provide all the necessary support to help them manage through this transition,” Mr Muganda said.

“This exercise will be carried out with due respect to our employees and within the Kenyan laws,” he said.