World Radio Day is an international commemoration of radio as a powerful medium for information sharing, dialogue, and social transformation. It is commemorated annually on the 13th of February. The mandate of the day is to continue celebrating the importance of radio as the most trusted platform of communication in the world. Radio remains an important platform for the advancement of education, cultural diversity, peace, and development, particularly in Kenya.
This year’s theme, ‘Radio and Artificial Intelligence: Innovation that Empowers, Ethics that Endures.’ is an attempt made to realize the ever-growing bond between conventional radio and emerging technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized content creation, dissemination, and reception. AI has empowered innovation in news coverage, translation, engagement, and programming. For radio stations, AI heralds opportunities to augment their outreach and efficiency to better captivate their audience.
Nevertheless, as the pace of innovation is heightened, ethical consideration should be placed at the core. The application of AI in the field of radio broadcasting entails transparency, accountability, and respect for the rights of individuals, such as the right to data privacy and freedom of expression. The focus should be on ensuring that the application of AI ethics supports and never undermines democratic values and social cohesion in society.
As a Commission therefore, World Radio Day 2026 is a call to reiterate our commitment to fostering prudent innovation in the media and communication sector. Through the championing of technological innovation and ethical standards, KNATCOM invites actors in the field, including the youth, broadcasters, and educational institutions, to embrace AI innovation while maintaining the reliability and durability of radio. Both innovation and ethics can then work together for the betterment of the field for the coming generations.
