Mediamax Announces Mass Layoffs Amid Restructuring Plan
Mediamax Network Limited, the parent company of K24 TV, People Daily, and Milele FM, has issued a 30-day redundancy notice to its employees as part of a strategic restructuring exercise.
File image of K24 TV studio. PHOTO/K24
In an internal memo dated July 14, 2025, Mediamax CEO Ken Ngaruiya said the move aims to realign operations in response to economic pressures, reduced business volumes, and evolving market dynamics in the media industry.
“Mediamax Network Limited is undertaking a strategic restructuring and reorganization of its business operations to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness. This follows challenges including rapid digital transformation, shifting client needs, and restrictive government regulations,” the memo read.
Reasons Behind the Layoffs
Ngaruiya cited delayed payments from national and county governments, the government’s policy of single-sourcing advertising to one media house, and tighter rules on betting and gambling adverts as key drivers of the decision.
The CEO added that the company would evaluate staffing levels, streamline operations, and outsource certain roles where necessary. He admitted the measures could result in layoffs affecting multiple departments.
Employee Rights and Compensation
Mediamax assured employees that the redundancy process would comply with Section 40 of Kenya’s Employment Act, 2007 and individual contracts of employment. Affected staff will receive:
- Salary for days worked up to the termination date
- Salary in lieu of notice
- Payment for accrued but unused leave
- Severance pay of 15 days’ salary for each year of service
The restructuring period runs from July 15 to August 15, 2025, during which Mediamax will explore redeployment options for affected employees based on their skills and qualifications.
This marks yet another wave of layoffs in Kenya’s struggling media industry, as traditional media houses grapple with shrinking revenues and a rapid shift toward digital platforms.
