NAIROBI, Kenya- When it comes to spreading the word about family planning in Kenya, radio reigns supreme.
A recent report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the Communications Authority reveals that radio is the go-to source for family planning information, far outpacing mobile messaging and internet platforms.
The numbers don’t lie—89.2pc of Kenyans rely on radio for family planning information, with men making up 68.5pc of listeners and women accounting for 30.7pc.
The enduring popularity of radio reflects its accessibility and reach, particularly in rural areas where alternative digital platforms are less prevalent.
Rural counties stand out for their reliance on radio, with Machakos leading in male listenership at 96.5pc and Siaya recording the highest female access at 40.7pc.
Nationally, nine out of ten men and eight out of ten women tune in to the airwaves, underscoring the medium’s unparalleled influence in disseminating critical health information.
While radio dominates, digital platforms like mobile messaging and internet usage trail significantly. According to the report, only 14.6pc of males and 7.2pc of females receive family planning information through mobile messages, making it the least utilized channel.
Internet access fares slightly better, with 38.5pc of males and 15.9pc of females turning to online sources.
However, these numbers pale in comparison to radio, highlighting the challenges of bridging the digital divide in family planning awareness, particularly in rural communities.
The study also highlights a clear urban-rural divide in media consumption patterns. While urban areas have better access to digital platforms, rural communities rely heavily on radio for health-related messaging.
This dynamic reinforces the need to tailor family planning campaigns to fit regional realities, ensuring no one is left behind.
Radio’s dominance as the leading source of family planning information in Kenya showcases its enduring relevance in an increasingly digital world.
As stakeholders continue working to improve access to health information, leveraging radio’s reach while expanding digital options could be the key to building a well-informed population.
