Digital Commons Network^™

Analysis Of Paywalled News Content In Kenya: The Case Of The Standard Group., Jared Oguta Ontobo

Theses & Dissertations

I want to thank God in the strongest possible terms for providing me with the confidence and fortitude to carry out this research effectively. I would like to convey my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to everyone who helped me finish this thesis on Analysis of Paywalled News Content: The Case of the Standard Group. The research would not have been possible without the help, direction, and encouragement of many people and organisations, for which I am eternally grateful. First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisors, Dr. Rosalind Raddatz and Dr. Joseph Nyanoti, for their …

Examining Audience Perceptions And Role Of Cookies In Select News Websites In Kenya: A Case Of Nation Africa And The Standard, Isabel Mwendwa Radoli

Theses & Dissertations

This thesis investigates the audience perceptions and the role of cookies in the user experience of selected news websites in Kenya. In an era dominated by digital media consumption, understanding how users interact with online news platforms is crucial for media practitioners and technology developers. The study focuses on the Kenyan context, exploring the unique dynamics that shape user engagement with news content and the impact of cookies on their online experience. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining a quantitative survey focused on audience perceptions of cookies and interactions with cookie consent notices and in-depth interviews with commercial website …

An Investigation On Gender Perceptions In Credibility Of Male And Female News Anchors In Kenya., Ngumbau Maluti Musau

Theses & Dissertations

The success and survival of media houses is based on viewership as informed on audience loyalty that is pegged on perceived credibility of the news items, news anchors and media houses. But, extent of credibility perception as influenced by gender under the gender disparity concept has not been assessed within the Kenyan media space; which forms the focus of this study. The main objective was to investigate gender perceptions in the credibility of male and female news anchors in Kenya. Specifically, the study assessed the perceived credibility of male news anchors in presenting hard news items in Kenya and examined …

Journalism In The Digital Era: Making The Case For Media Research Department., Yvonne Okwara

Theses & Dissertations

In a world with social media outlets that are quick on the mark when it comes to breaking news, it is no longer the journalist’s job to be the first or the fastest to break news. That has been disrupted already. What audiences need now more than ever before is confirmation, understanding and analysis of what the news means to them, and how it will affect their lives. What they are looking for is an understanding of the genesis of an event, its progression up until the point the story broke, and why it should matter to them. The study …

An Analysis Of The Contribution Of Industrial Attachment In Journalism Training In Kenya: Challenges And Opportunities For An Effective Framework, Yusuf Ali Lakicha

Theses & Dissertations

In Journalism Schools, industrial attachment is an integral part of media education, offering students valuable opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and gain practical skills necessary for successful careers in the media industry. It is an essential part of an academic programme where students augment the practical skills learnt in school in an actual work environment. This study examined the contribution of industrial attachment in journalism, with a focus on arguably Kenya’s leading media organization, Royal Media Services, which has three television stations and 12 radio stations. The objective of the study was to assess the structure of …

Digital Transformation In A Legacy Media House: A Case Study Of Nation Media Group’S Tag Brand Studio, Sheila Adam

Theses & Dissertations

Media organizations in Kenya face significant obstacles, with the major ones being financial limitations and technological disruptions. Consequently, these challenges have necessitated the adoption of digital transformation as a means for media houses to sustain their operations and maintain their relevance in the eyes of their audience. Organizations around the world have opted to establish in-house brand studios or agencies to provide creative services and support their branding and marketing efforts by carrying out tasks typically handled by external agencies. Nation Media Group established Tag Brand Studio, an in-house digital marketing agency that develops and implements long-term digital marketing strategies …

Analysis Of Media Convergence At Vision Group Uganda, Semei Wessaali

Theses & Dissertations

This research delves into the phenomenon of media convergence within Vision Group, concentrating on key factors influencing its implementation. Employing a cross-sectional approach, the study employs both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data from Vision Group staff and audiences. The primary objectives include assessing staff perceptions of content quality post-convergence, examining the organizational response to convergence, and scrutinizing audience consumption patterns. The results demonstrate a notable enhancement in content quality, with journalists in a converged system exhibiting improved output. Positive outcomes are also attributed to organizational and cultural changes that support convergence, including staff training, promotion of collaborations, and …

Exploring The Viability Of A Hybrid E-Commerce Portal As An Alternative Revenue Model For Nation Media Group Uganda, Samuel Kanyaihe Barata

Theses & Dissertations

The global media industry, shaped by technological advancements, is facing existential challenges and Nation Media Group Uganda, like its industry counterparts, continues to grapple with declining circulation, viewership, and advertising revenues. These hardships test NMGU's sustainability, pushing the exploration of new digital revenue streams. Paywalls, initially slow globally, prompting a quest for alternative models, notably a hybrid e-commerce portal, prompting this research. To evaluate NMGU's potential hybrid e-commerce venture, the researcher gauged public interest and vendor/service provider willingness using quantitative methods. Out of 102 distributed questionnaires, an 83% response rate yielded 85 valuable insights, forming the primary dataset for analysis. …

The Viability Of Online Niche Market Programming By Radio Stations In Uganda: An Analysis Of Cbs Fm., Samson Bill Nyatia

Theses & Dissertations

This study about niche marketing for a radio operator in Uganda, CBS FM, is set in the context of an altered media landscape in which shifting fortunes and emergent opportunities present the need for new product development, spurred in part by the pressures of balancing the interests of a multiplicity of stakeholders, whose needs outpace the station’s broadcasting and revenue-generating capacity. Faced with intense competition, a disruptive set of new media operations, as well as an aggressive buyer’s market, CBS FM must now consider tapping into the capabilities availed by technology, to serve its clientele better. The first chapter explores …

Examining The Role Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) In Transforming Print Journalism In Uganda., Robert Mukasa

Theses & Dissertations

This study provides an analysis of the current state of artificial intelligence adoption in two privately funded print media houses in Uganda: The Observer and Daily Monitor." The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into journalism has been touted as a transformative force with several advantages and disadvantages, including improvements in workflow efficiency, content accuracy, and audience engagement. Despite this potential, the adoption of AI in Ugandan print journalism has been slow, due to challenges such as limited access to technological resources and a lack of AI literacy among journalists. Using the Technology Acceptance Model as a guiding framework, the study …

Hyperlocal Digital Content Profits: Strategizing Revenue Generation For New Vision Podcasts, Athman Raziah

Theses & Dissertations

This capstone project explores how traditional media houses can generate revenue from hyperlocal digital content, focusing specifically on podcasts. As consumer habits and advertising trends shift towards digital platforms; traditional media outlets face the challenge of reaching niche audiences and convincing advertisers to invest in digital advertising, particularly in the realm of podcasts. With the decline in physical newspaper readership, the digital wave has gained significant momentum, leading to a transition from traditional media to more accessible and fragmented platforms. This project aims to design a sustainable revenue-generating strategy for New Vision podcasts, addressing the unfamiliarity of producers, media executives, …

Employing Data Visualization For Effective Health Communication In Nairobi, Kenya: A Study Of Select Media Houses., Rabudi Charles Mark

Theses & Dissertations

This capstone project analyzes how journalists use data visualization to communicate health information. With the advent of evidence-based practice in medical communication, it is necessary to provide health information in a way that raises public health awareness and changes individual behaviour for beneficial health outcomes. The use of data visualization tools such as charts, graphs, and maps aids in the presentation of data patterns and insights, improving knowledge, engagement, and decision-making in the field of health communication. The study seeks to identify the types of health data visualization commonly employed by journalists in Kenya; assess the level of training and …

Revolutionizing Vernacular Radio To Embrace The Youth: A Case Of Muuga Fm., Muroria Grace Mukiri

Theses & Dissertations

Radio has been a powerful tool for mass communication and entertainment for over a century. In many developing countries, vernacular radio, which broadcasts in local languages, has been very popular and it serves as a platform for promoting local cultures, traditions and events. However, with the advent of modern technology, young people are increasingly turning away from radio as a source of entertainment and information. This trend threatens the future of vernacular radio stations, which must find new ways to engage and attract younger audiences. This project used a case of Muuga FM. Muuga FM is a vernacular radio station …

Local Content Monetization Strategies For Revenue Generation Employed By Independent Tv Producers On Ott Platforms In Kenya., Misiko Andere

Theses & Dissertations

The rapid growth of over-the-top (OTT) platforms has revolutionized the way video content is marketed and consumed and provided a unique opportunity for Kenyan content creators to showcase their creative storytelling work to a global audience. However, the lack of bankable/effective monetization strategies poses significant hurdles for local producers; this is largely due to the various ways in which the content is consumed and the variations of the same content on internet-enabled platforms that are linked to the OTT platforms such as mobile and online platforms linked to the streaming services. Accordingly, the objective of this capstone project is to …

Post-Discharge Malaria Chemoprevention In Children Admitted With Severe Anaemia In Malaria-Endemic Settings In Africa: A Systematic Review And Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis Of Randomised Controlled Trials, Kamija Phiri, Carole Khairallah, Titus Kwambai, Kalifa Bojang, Aggrey Dhabangi, Robert Opoka, Richard Idro, Kasia Stepniewska, Michael Boele Van Hensbroek, Chandy C John

Paediatrics and Child Health, East Africa

Background: Severe anaemia is associated with high in-hospital mortality among young children. In malaria-endemic areas, surviving children also have an increased risk of mortality or readmission after hospital discharge. We conducted a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis to determine the efficacy of monthly post-discharge malaria chemoprevention in children recovering from severe anaemia.

Methods: This analysis was conducted according to PRISMA-IPD guidelines. We searched multiple databases on Aug 28, 2023, without date or language restrictions, for randomised controlled trials comparing monthly post-discharge malaria chemoprevention with placebo or standard of care among children (agedyears) admitted with severe anaemia in malaria-endemic …

A Case Study Of Hospital Contraceptive Waste Management Practices In Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, Anambra State, Yanmeer S. Tyotswam, Rosebella Iseme, Eliphas G. Makunyi

Population Health, East Africa

Background: Effective management of hospital waste is a critical component of a hospital’s infection control program and is central to occupational safety for healthcare workers. Thus, this study focused on the assessment of hospital contraceptive waste management practices at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital (COOUTH) Awka, Anambra state, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross sectional analytical study was carried out among healthcare workers selected using multistage sampling technique in 6 categories of healthcare workers in COOUTH. Data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and a World Health Organization (WHO) checklist and analyzed using statistical package for the …

Towards An Efficient Management Of Fake News In The Digital Media Era Newsrooms. A Case Study Of Citizen Digital, Royal Media Services., Francis Gachuri

Theses & Dissertations

The challenge of fake news in the media is a persistent struggle and dents the credibility of journalism as a source of accurate and verifiable content. With the vast penetration of the internet and growth in social media, the legacy media (mainstream media) has to contend with the spread of fake content and safeguard itself from losing its face as the source of truth. Media houses have to rethink, re-strategize and invest in tools, skills, equipment and processes that will identify, isolate and debunk fake news, and stop its dissemination for consumption by the masses. The main objective of this …

Exploring The Challenges And Opportunities Of Digital Transformation In Media Organizations: A Case Of Nation Media Group Uganda., Emmanuel Waiswa

Theses & Dissertations

This study explores Nation Media Group Uganda’s digital transformation and revenue diversification efforts in response to challenges in the evolving media market. Employing a mixed methods approach, including in-depth interviews with 7 key stakeholders, an online questionnaire distributed to 43 respondents, and document analysis, the study offers nuanced insights into NMGU's digital landscape. The key focus areas of this study are first - organizational culture, technology, and digital competencies. NMGU faces resistance to innovation rooted in a focus on traditional revenue streams, creating bureaucratic hurdles and a generational gap. Addressing these challenges requires a proactive approach to technology integration and …

Role Of The Public Editor In Enhancing Trust In Legacy Media: Case Study Of Daily Monitor Newspaper In Uganda., Eriasa Mukiibi

Theses & Dissertations

The study critically examines the pivotal role of the Public Editor (PE) at the Daily Monitor Newspaper in Uganda, focusing on comprehending reader trust levels, assessing petitioner satisfaction, and exploring Editorial Team perceptions. Against the backdrop of Uganda's evolving media landscape that is shaped by digital news, government influence, and media ownership, this research emphasizes the indispensable function of PEs in preserving public trust. Through a multifaceted analysis encompassing reader sentiments, petitioner satisfaction, and Editorial Team perspectives, the study unveils insights into trust, satisfaction, and editorial processes within the newspaper. Study Findings revealed a predominantly male readership (76%) within the …

Customer-Centric Data Strategies To Drive Revenue Growth., Maxwell Okeyo

Theses & Dissertations

In today's digital age, media organisations grapple with declining revenues due to the shift from print to digital platforms. To tackle this challenge, there is a pressing need for these organisations to explore sustainable business models that prioritise revenue from readers. This project aims to address this issue by delving into data-driven strategies centred around readers' preferences and behaviours, aiming to sustainably spur revenue growth. The primary objective of this project was to craft and implement a reader-focused strategy to boost revenue. To achieve this, specific goals were outlined. Initially, the project sought to explore reader preferences and behaviours in …

Content Monetization: Non-Fungible Tokens As A New Revenue Stream For The Media Sector In Kenya., Geoffrey Macharia Wamugo

Theses & Dissertations

Non–Fungible Tokens, also known as NFTs, are a unique digital asset that is a representation of an object in the real world like a piece of art, photo, or video. The use of NFTs is on the rise and several companies as well as individuals are using them to make money. With the changes being experienced in the sector, Media houses like the US Time Magazine who already used its stockpile of historical images to create NFTs are tapping this digital territory to get more revenue. Recently, marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge earned $37,351 after auctioning two videos of his career …

Universities As Innovation Hubs For Television Stations In Uganda., Imokola John Baptist

Theses & Dissertations

Television in Uganda continues to struggle to deal with changes in the industry, which has ultimately led to the closure or restructuring of many organizations. Many of those that remain are also struggling to survive in the market. For them to remain successful and viable, they need to constantly innovate to deal with these changes, as well as satisfy the needs of their audience. Innovation, however, is expensive in terms of time, finances and human resources. This study set out to examine the possibilities of using journalism schools in universities as innovation hubs for the television industry. The study was …

Harnessing The Potential Of Digital Media For Business Growth Of Legacy Media In Kenya., Lilian Odera

Theses & Dissertations

In today’s digital era, businesses in Kenya have a unique opportunity to leverage digital technology to drive growth, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer experiences. By embracing digital transformation, the media industry can expand its market reach, streamline operations, foster innovation, and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving business landscape. However, this transition is not without challenges, including cybersecurity risks, skills gaps, and ethical considerations. This study provides an analysis of the digital technology for business growth of the legacy media in Kenya. To conduct this research, a descriptive research design was employed, and the researcher collected primary data from …

Developing A Fact-Checking Model For Election Disinformation, Kenneth Kiunga

Theses & Dissertations

Disinformation poses an increasing threat to the integrity of electoral processes. This research endeavoured to design a fact-checking model that can be used in an electoral cycle in Kenya. Through interviews and document analysis, the study first sought to analyze the efficacy and challenges of the strategies that media organizations in Kenya used to fact-check digital content during the August 2022 elections. The critical examination of the framework used by the African Infodemic Response Alliance informed the development of an electoral fact-checking model. The study found that the strategies that the media organizations used to verify online information in the …

The Gig Economy And Labour Resource Practices: A Case Study Of Africa Uncensored Limited, John Allan Namu

Theses & Dissertations

The following capstone paper discusses an emergent issue in labour relations within the media sector; contract or “gig” work. It draws on a context of nearly a decade of falling profits and failing business models within the news media sector, juxtaposed against the rising dominance of revenue models that are derivative of digital media businesses. The objectives of the capstone were to determine sustainable remuneration models that can be explored by Africa Uncensored Limited(AUC) staff in gig work and build a framework for engagement with individuals doing gig work. Employing a case- study approach, the researcher facilitated an understanding of …

An Analysis Of Ethical Practices In Production Of Youtube Editorial Content In Rwanda., James Munyaneza

Theses & Dissertations

Many scholars have investigated the impact of digital technologies on journalism ethics, citing falling ethical standards and urging the protection of the basic tenets of journalism. YouTube has emerged as a major conduit of information, thereby helping democratise content. But scholars like Ward have wondered if the old journalistic ideals of objectivity and editorial independence apply to citizen journalists as much. Indeed, Hulin attempted to draw a line between journalists and other online content producers, noting that journalists retain a major responsibility in the promotion of democracy. Democracy, he argues, still needs professional journalists. As such, media outlets need to …

Uterine Rupture In The First Trimester: A Case Report And Review Of The Literature., Steve Mutiso, Felix Oindi, Debbie Mundia

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, East Africa

Background: Uterine rupture is a rare complication that can occur in the frst trimester of pregnancy. It can lead to serious maternal morbidity or mortality, which is mostly due to catastrophic bleeding. First trimester uterine rupture is rare; hence, diagnosis can be challenging as it may be confused with other causes of early pregnancy bleeding such as an ectopic pregnancy. We present a case of frst trimester scar dehiscence and conduct a literature review of this rare condition.

Case presentation: A 39-year-old African patient with four previous hysterotomy scars presented with severe lower abdominal pain at 11 weeks of gestation. …

Strategies For Growing Audience For Community Radio In The Digital Era. The Case Of Arua One Fm., Grace Rechue Lekuru

Theses & Dissertations

The media landscape has been profoundly transformed by the emergence of digital technologies and the internet, posing both challenges and opportunities for community radios to reach and expand their audiences. Through an in-depth case study analysis, this research aims to examine approaches and tactics utilized by Arua One FM, shedding light on the broader strategies that community radios can adopt to thrive amidst the dynamic digital disruptions in the media industry. Arua One FM is a rural community radio located in the North-West of Uganda and owned by Vision Group. This study employed qualitative methodologies with a focus on the …

Investigating The Impact Of Digital Transformation On Legacy Media In Uganda: The Case Of New Vision Newspaper., Francis Kagolo

Theses & Dissertations

This study sought to investigate the impact of digital transformation on legacy media in Uganda, using the leading English newspaper, New Vision, as a case study. Employing qualitative methods, including documentary analysis and interviews with 13 senior editors, circulation and finance managers, and media scholars, the study evaluated the impact of digital transformation on New Vision, examined revenue streams, and assessed the newspaper’s content strategy effectiveness. Findings reveal that while digital technology enhanced news gathering and distribution efficiency, it diminished the newspaper's ability to break stories, leading to declining sales and revenue. New Vision's attempts to monetise digital content face …

Upskilling And Retooling Regional Correspondents In A Changing Media Landscape: A Case Study Of Royal Media Services Limited., Fayzah Wanjiru

Theses & Dissertations

Regional correspondents play a major role in the media in Kenya by bringing into the national discourse local stories from rural, marginalized, and isolated communities, as well as from other towns away from the capital city or the head office of a media organization. Advancements in technology in the digital era have transformed the media landscape, forcing the media to adopt new business models as audience consumption habits change. Regional correspondents must equip themselves with relevant skills to adapt to the evolving media landscape. Industry players have found that regional correspondents lack competency skills. Ireri (2017) argued that journalists feel …