Urban TV Set for Possible Comeback, Vision Group CEO Indicates

Vision Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Don Wanyama, hinted at the potential return of Urban TV, the media conglomerate’s youth-centric channel. Speaking before the Committee of Commissions, Statutory Authorities & State Enterprises (COSASE), Wanyama outlined that discussions were underway regarding the channel’s revival, contingent upon resolving internal strategic matters and securing necessary resources.

The suspension of Urban TV earlier in 2024 was characterized as a strategic pause to evaluate its viability rather than a definitive closure. Wanyama emphasized that the decision stemmed from financial considerations and the need to assess the channel’s commercial sustainability.

“Urban TV ceased operations in March after a thirteen-year run due to financial instability,” Wanyama clarified, defending the move as a necessary measure amid declining revenues and escalating operational costs.

Efforts to rejuvenate Urban TV, such as introducing the “Celebrity Edition” news program, aimed at boosting viewership and revenue, fell short of expectations. Despite these efforts, the channel continued to struggle financially, prompting its eventual shutdown and replacement of its DStv slot with other Vision Group channels.

Wanyama addressed concerns raised by lawmakers regarding Urban TV’s closure compared to smaller entities’ sustainability, attributing the decision to the channel’s economic challenges and operational constraints.

The potential revival of Urban TV hinges on resolving internal operational issues and securing adequate resources to ensure sustainable operations in the future.