Contribution of the New Constitution in Promoting Kiswahili Use in Mass Media

Abstract

Media plays a major role in the society; it is the medium of providing information, it creates social integration, and promotes shared values, knowledge and entertainment. Proper use of standard language is essential to achieve these objectives. Media industry in Kenya has grown exponentially from the early 1990s. This growth has been characterized by the deployment of the latest technological innovations, increased number of frequency modulated radios and professional media practitioners. Many of the media houses in Kenya today are using different styles and methods to attract and keep listeners for their own economic survival. This paper investigates the effects of new constitution on the language used in the mass media. It highlights the gains that have been made specifically in promoting Kiswahili language as a national and official language as well as the challenges.