Abstract:
Throughout the world, there has been a surge in the growth of independent media,
fuelled by greater democratic gains and advances in technology. This exponential
growth and free operational space have put pressure on the media to develop
effective media cultures and practices. Arising from this background, this study
investigated gatekeeping at KTN and NTV television stations in Kenya. The
following research questions guided the study: What is the role of gatekeeping in
live television talk shows in Kenya?; How does gatekeeping manifest in live
television talk shows in Kenya?; What is the perception of journalists on
gatekeeping in live television talk shows in Kenya? The research was guided by the
Gatekeeping theory and the Social Responsibility Theory. The qualitative research
approach was chosen for this study and the research method was a multiple case
study. Purposive sampling was used to pick 12 television journalists working as
producers, editors and show hosts as participants for the study. In-depth interviews
were held with the participants and the data generated was analysed using thematic
analysis and presented in narrative form. The findings revealed that gatekeeping in
live television talk shows is used to manage content and to ensure only ethical and
quality content is broadcasted to the public. Gatekeeping is also used to prevent
misinformation and as a tool to protect the image of the media house. The study
also found that the gatekeeping practice manifests in live talk shows through
external censorship, self-censorship, fact-checking, disclaimers by show hosts and
the use of delay technology. Further, the participants were of the view that even
though gatekeeping was instrumental in live television talk shows, it was hampered
by a lack of appropriate technology, inadequate training, and unethical gatekeeping
practices. Even more, participants stated that gatekeeping was practised
haphazardly, without clear, agreed-upon policies and procedures. Therefore,
newsroom managers need to develop effective policies and guidelines that ensure
the gatekeeping practices create trust between audiences and media organisations.
There is a need for media managers to upscale gatekeepers‘ skills through regular
training and investing in research and innovation.
