By Mandere Onyinkwa
The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) revamp took center stage as the Principal Secretary for Public Investments and Assets Management, Cyrell Wagunda, met the broadcaster’s Board of Directors to accelerate reforms under the Government Owned Enterprise (GOE) framework.
In the meeting, Wagunda said the enactment of the GOE Act 2025 signals a major shift in how state-owned entities operate, describing it as “one of the most unprecedented institutional reforms within the public sector in recent years.”
He noted that the new law requires GOEs to transition from administrative bodies into commercially driven institutions grounded in strong governance and financial discipline.
Wagunda directed KBC and other GOEs to strictly comply with the Mwongozo Code and the new legal framework, emphasizing structured planning and sustainability.
“Each entity must have a clear, costed and time-bound Strategic Plan aligned with national development priorities. They should also ensure financial sustainability to reduce overreliance on the Exchequer and grow commercially viable revenue streams,” he stated.
He further stressed prudent asset management to safeguard and optimize public resources, while enforcing zero tolerance for governance lapses such as conflict of interest, irregular procurement, and failure to meet reporting standards.
The PS urged the Board to strengthen internal systems, including risk management, audit compliance, and internal controls, while holding management accountable and upholding strict ethical standards such as declaration of interest and confidentiality.
Board Chairperson Tom Mshindi outlined a comprehensive revamp strategy focused on improving infrastructure, overhauling content, boosting revenue streams, and leveraging digitalization to drive innovation and attract younger audiences.
KBC Chief Executive Officer Agnes Kalekye echoed the commitment, thanking PS Wagunda for his support and noting that the reforms would be instrumental in translating the Corporation’s vision into reality.