Generative artificial intelligence and the transformation of newsroom practices in Kenya: A mixed-methods study of professional and training newsrooms

Abstract The rapid diffusion of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is transforming newsroom practices globally, yet empirical evidence from African media contexts remains limited. This study examines how GenAI is reshaping newsroom workflows, professional roles, and ethical practices in Kenya through a convergent mixed-methods case study of a hybrid professional–training newsroom. Quantitative data were collected using a structured survey administered to newsroom professionals and journalism students on attachment, complemented by qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. Data from both strands were analysed separately and integrated at the interpretation stage. Findings indicate that GenAI is primarily used as an assistive technology to support routine and time-intensive tasks such as transcription, summarization, and content preparation, resulting in perceived improvements in workflow efficiency. Human editorial judgment, verification, and accountability remain central to news production. Differences emerged between professionals and students, with students displaying greater experimentation with AI tools, underscoring the importance of institutional mentorship and governance. Persistent ethical concerns related to accuracy, bias, transparency, and data governance highlight the need for formal newsroom policies and human-in-the-loop oversight. The study contributes context-specific insights from the Global South and informs newsroom governance, journalism education, and policy development. Key Words: Generative artificial intelligence, AI in journalism, newsroom practices in Kenya; media ethics; mixed-methods media research About the Authors * Tommy Kibera Kiilu, Ph.D., is a Lecturer in the Department of Communication, Media, Film and Theatre Studies at Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya where he was Chairperson of the Department from 2020–2025. He also has industry experience in marketing and brand strategy from Rome. His scholarly work focuses on media studies, development and strategic communication, with particular interest in artificial intelligence in journalism, media ethics, digital transformation, and media literacy. ** George Ngugi King'ara, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer in Communication and Media Studies in the Department of Communication, Media, Film and Theatre Studies at Kenyatta University, where he served as Chairperson for five years before joining KUTV & Radio Services (KUTV&RS), an advanced training centre for students in the Department and a fully-fledged broadcaster. His research interests are in the cultures of television production and the conceptualization of audiences and new media cultural formations. He is also a practitioner in television programme and documentary production. JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 18, No. 2, October 2026, pp. 1-14. © Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON). Article Citation Kiilu, T. K. & King’ara, G. N. (2026). Generative artificial intelligence and the transformation of newsroom practices in Kenya: A mixed-methods study of professional and training newsrooms. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 18 (2): 1-14. Full Article Words: 7,324 Pages: 14 To access full article, click on download.