By Elsa Lunani
In the 1980s, entertainment in Kenya looked very different. With no internet access, people mostly relied on a few TV and radio stations for news and entertainment. There were limited choices, and the content was mostly local. Things began to change in the mid-1990s with the arrival of the internet. This was a turning point for Kenya’s entertainment industry. Internet access opened up new ways for people to watch, listen, and engage with content through streaming from both local and international sources.
Impact of the Internet on Entertainment
At first, progress was slow. Kenya got its first taste of the internet in 1993, but it was limited to email services. Broader internet access came in 1995, mainly through the Kenya Posts and Telecommunications Corporation. It wasn’t until around the year 2000 that private companies like Wananchi Online, Africa Online, and AccessKenya entered the market. They improved access for more people.
Even then, challenges remained—especially the high cost and slow internet speeds. But a major shift happened in 2009 with the introduction of undersea fiber optic cables like SEACOM and TEAMS. These greatly improved speed and reduced costs, leading to a rise in internet usage across the country.
Today, Kenya has over 37 million internet users. This number is expected to grow to more than 60 million by 2029. The growth of smartphone usage has played a big role in this digital expansion. A 2024 report by the Communications Authority of Kenya shows that 72.6% of mobile users in Kenya use smartphones. This rise in smartphone ownership supports the use of 4G and 5G networks, making it easier for people to access online content on the go.
All these changes have had a big impact on the entertainment industry. The rise of the internet has made it possible for people to watch movies, listen to music, and engage with social media from anywhere. Platforms like YouTube and Showmax have become popular places for local creators to share their work and reach global audiences.
The Role of Bundled Services and Partnerships
Telecommunication companies like Safaricom have teamed up with content providers such as MultiChoice to offer bundled services. These packages often include both internet data and access to streaming platforms, making it easier and more affordable for people to enjoy digital content. For example, Safaricom and MultiChoice now offer customers Showmax subscriptions along with mobile data, removing the need for extra devices or cables.
Another good example is the DStv Stream partnership. This service allows people to stream high-quality TV shows and movies with just an internet connection—no need for satellite dishes or decoders. It’s especially helpful for those living in remote areas, thanks to Safaricom’s wide mobile network coverage.
These bundled services also help people manage their subscriptions more easily while promoting local content. By making digital entertainment more accessible and affordable, they’re helping to grow Kenya’s entertainment sector and support local creators.
A 2023 report by Statista found that most Kenyans aged 16 to 64 regularly watch online videos. Music videos were the most popular, with 63% of viewers watching them. Viral clips, comedy skits, and memes were also widely watched. Educational videos and how-to tutorials attracted about a third of viewers, showing that people are also looking for useful and informative content.
Financially, the streaming industry is also growing. Kenya’s streaming market will reach $428,700 in revenue by 2025, with steady growth predicted through 2029. Platforms like Showmax are attracting more subscribers thanks to their variety of content, catering to the growing demand for digital entertainment.
In summary, the internet has transformed entertainment in Kenya. From limited radio and TV in the 1980s to streaming, social media, and mobile access today, the digital shift is connecting more people to more content than ever before.
