NMG Responds to Criticism Over Lack of Women in Editorial Leadership

Nation Media Group (NMG) has responded to public criticism over the representation of women in its editorial leadership following recent changes to its leadership structure across East Africa.

In a statement on Friday, September 18, the company noted that the appointments had sparked a public conversation, particularly over the number of women selected for senior editorial positions.

"Nation Media Group (NMG) has taken note of the public conversation following the recent changes to our editorial leadership across East Africa, including concerns regarding the representation of women among the appointments announced," the statement read.

NMG acknowledged the contribution of women to its journalism and said their involvement had strengthened its newsrooms over the years.

"We recognise the concern and the important role women have played in shaping NMG's journalism over the years. Their perspectives, expertise and experiences have enriched our newsrooms and increasing their representation, particularly in leadership and decision-making, can only make our journalism stronger and better reflect the audiences and communities we serve," the statement added.

NMG also provided figures showing the current representation of women across different levels of its workforce.

"Women currently constitute 36% of our overall workforce, 33% of our newsroom, 42% of our Executive Committee and 41% of Heads of Department, against our 40% representation target," the statement further read.

NMG said the criticism had highlighted a gap specifically within its editorial leadership, prompting the company to consider how representation can be improved at that level.

"The current conversation has therefore brought the gap within our editorial leadership into sharper focus and gives us reason to reflect on how we strengthen representation at this level," the statement noted.

NMG welcomed the public engagement on the issue and reaffirmed its commitment to creating opportunities for women to rise into senior editorial positions.

"We welcome the constructive engagement this conversation has generated and remain committed to creating pathways for more women to progress into senior editorial roles, while building newsrooms that reflect different perspectives and strengthen the quality and impact of our journalism," the statement concluded.

On Wednesday, September 16, NMG announced changes to its editorial leadership structure in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

In a memo on Wednesday, September 16, NMG Group Managing Director and CEO Geoffrey Odundo said the appointments take effect immediately.

"Following a review of the Group’s editorial structure and evolving business requirements across the region, we wish to inform you of the following changes, effective immediately," the memo read.

In Uganda, Joe Ageyo has been appointed Editor-in-Chief of NMG Uganda, while Washington Gikunju will serve as Acting Managing Editor of NMG Uganda.

The changes also affect NMG’s operations in Tanzania, where James Smart has been appointed Acting Managing Editor, Broadcast and New Media, at Mwananchi Communications Limited.

In Kenya, Harry Misiko will take up the role of Acting Editor-in-Chief, while Dann Mwangi will serve as Acting Managing Editor, Broadcast and New Media.

John Kiplagat has been appointed Acting Managing Editor, Publishing, while Justus Wanga will serve as Acting Lead Editor, Weekend Edition.

Michael Owuor has been appointed Acting Lead Editor, Daily Nation, with Ben Kitili taking up the position of Acting Lead Editor, Broadcasting.

Michael Omondi will serve as Acting Lead Editor, Business Daily, while Alex Ndegwa has been appointed Editor, Content Hub.

Odundo congratulated the journalists taking up the new responsibilities and called on colleagues across the Group to support them during the transition.

"We congratulate all our colleagues and ask everyone to accord them the necessary support as they transition into their respective roles," the memo added.