The Nation Media Group has launched a robust Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy to guide the use of AI and generative AI tools in its journalism, marking a first in the region.
AI refers to computer systems or machines that are designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence. Generative AI, on the other hand, refers to computer systems or machines that can produce new content similar to what they learned from training data.
Since the release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, AI tools have rapidly gained popularity in content generation and have become a staple in modern content creation.
In the foreword to the ‘Framework for the Use of Artificial Intelligence’, NMG Editor-in-Chief Joe Ageyo acknowledges that the industry cannot shy away from engaging with this new technology.
“For journalism organisations, the question is no longer whether to engage with AI, but how to do so responsibly, strategically, and in a manner that strengthens public trust,” he notes.
Dr Ageyo emphasises that AI is a tool that can be used to by NMG staff to enhance the publisher’s content journalism across print, digital and broadcast platforms.
“For the avoidance of doubt, we are deploying AI to enhance the depth, reach, and impact of our journalism, and not to replace the human judgement, creativity, and accountability that have defined NMG journalism for six and a half decades.”
The new framework is expected to strengthen and work in tandem with Nation Media Group’s already robust editorial policy.
“This framework will only guide the use of AI and, thus, does not supersede the NMG Editorial Policy, which remains the supreme authority governing all journalism within Nation Media Group.”
He adds that the framework is designed to be dynamic and will undergo continuous updates as AI technology evolves.
The release of the framework signals the media group’s commitment to staying abreast of technological and innovation trends while maintaining audience trust through the responsible, ethical, and value-driven use of AI in journalism.
The new policy emphasises strict guidelines to maintain a “human-in-the-loop” approach in all AI-related operations.
This means that NMG will retain editorial oversight and human input in content planning, generation, processing and production, ensuring approved AI tools are used only as aids, not as replacements for human judgement.
Under the framework, audiences will be informed whenever an AI tool has been used to generate content, collect their data, or personalise their experiences while using NMG products.
It also provides for the protection of audience data and privacy in compliance with NMG internal regulations, Kenyan laws, media ethics and international best practices.
Further, the framework guides journalists on where AI can be applied, including limited content generation, translation, content curation, audience analysis, engagement, automating tasks, and targeted advertising.
These are routine media house tasks and processes that can be streamlined through technology, the policy notes.
On user competencies and readiness to use AI tools, the framework outlines key areas for training of staff.
These include AI and data literacy, critical thinking, fact-checking and verification skills, ethical considerations, and understanding audience needs.
The policy sets out 10 core principles for AI use in Nation journalism, covering accountability, fairness, data protection and governance, maintaining a human-in-the-loop, safety and security of AI systems, transparency, and explainability, among others.
These guidelines position NMG at the forefront of transparency and ethical, responsible use of AI, reinforcing trust in the journalism of the regional publisher.
The Nairobi-based media house now joins a group of elite news publishers that have adopted AI-use guidelines in their journalism— including CNN, The New York Times, the BBC, The Guardian, the Financial Times, and Sky News.
The publisher is leading the way in the region by formulating and implementing an AI framework at a time when Kenya’s AI policy is being shaped by the National AI Strategy 2025–2030.
nmbaabu@ke.nationmedia.com
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