No Job cuts, Nation Media’s new majority shareholder Rostam Azizi assures employees

Nation Media Group’s incoming majority shareholder Rostam Azizi has assured employees that the company’s new ownership will focus on growth rather than layoffs.

The Tanzanian billionaire made the remarks as his firm Taarifa Ltd moves to acquire a 54.08 percent stake in Nation Media Group (NMG) from the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED), a deal that could reshape the region’s media landscape.

Speaking during remarks shared by Daily Nation on March 11, 2026, Azizi emphasised that the new investment would prioritise expansion, stability and job creation.

Assurance to employees amid ownership transition

Azizi sought to calm concerns among staff about possible restructuring following the change in ownership.

He said the objective of the investment is to strengthen the media company and create new opportunities rather than reduce the workforce.

“Our intention is not to cut costs, but to grow the company so we can be more profitable,” Azizi said on March 11, 2026.

“I want to assure the employees of Nation Media Group that our intention is to expand, not reduce. There will be more jobs created going forward rather than less jobs.”

His statement comes at a time when many media organisations globally have faced layoffs due to declining traditional advertising revenues and the shift toward digital platforms.

Commitment to editorial independence

Azizi also underscored the importance of maintaining the editorial credibility and professionalism that Nation Media Group is known for across East Africa.

The company owns several major media outlets including Daily Nation, NTV, Nation FM, and regional publications across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

“This partnership is grounded in a commitment to editorial professionalism and institutional credibility,” Azizi said.

“My role as an investor is to ensure the institution has the resources, leadership and stability required to serve the public with professionalism and integrity.”

Media analysts say preserving editorial independence will be crucial for maintaining public trust in one of East Africa’s largest and most influential media organisations.

Strengthening regional ties

Azizi also spoke about the importance of building relationships across East Africa as regional businesses continue to expand beyond their borders.

The Tanzanian tycoon noted that his connections with leaders and institutions across the region reflect the growing integration within the East African Community.

“I was closer to Mzee Raila who was a guest of honour in my daughter’s wedding in Tanzania,” Azizi said.

“In order to build a stronger East African community, we need to build relations. Ruto is not my first leader in Kenya to be friends.”

According to analysts, Azizi’s investment signals increasing cross-border partnerships between Kenyan and Tanzanian businesses.

A new chapter for Nation Media Group

If completed, the transaction will mark one of the most significant media ownership changes in East Africa in recent years.

Industry experts say the investment could provide the capital needed for digital transformation, expansion into new markets and strengthening the company’s regional footprint.

Azizi has indicated that his goal is to ensure the organisation continues to grow while maintaining its longstanding reputation for credible journalism.

Observers say the coming months will determine how the new ownership structure reshapes the strategic direction of the media giant.

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