As digital platforms and algorithm-driven distribution continue to redefine how audiences discover and consume content, the upcoming Broadcasters Convention – East Africa 2026 will spotlight one of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today: Audience Engagement In The Algorithm Era.
Convened by Broadcast Media Africa (BMA), co-hosted by the Association of Professional Broadcasters – Kenya (APB-KE), the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), to take place from 26–28 May 2026 at the Emara-Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi – Kenya, this high-level gathering will bring together broadcasters, content creators and distributors as well as Media technology leaders from across Africa and the world.
During the convention, a session on “Audience Engagement In The Algorithm Era” will explore how broadcasters and media practitioners can succeed by leveraging data analytics, audience insights, and platform-specific strategies to enhance visibility and deepen engagement. It will also examine how broadcasters can balance algorithmic demands with authentic storytelling and public-interest content.
Commenting on the importance of this topic for the event, Mr Benjamin Pius, CEO of Broadcast Media Africa and convenor of the event, said, “Algorithms are now powerful gatekeepers in the media value chain. For broadcasters, especially in Africa, success will depend on how effectively they understand and work with these systems without losing editorial identity and audience trust. This conversation is critical for ensuring that African media remains both competitive and culturally relevant in a global digital environment.”
The discussion is expected to address key issues, including discoverability in crowded digital ecosystems, the role of artificial intelligence in audience targeting, the risks of over-reliance on platform algorithms, and strategies for building direct audience relationships beyond third-party platforms.
As audience behaviours continue to evolve alongside technological advancements, the Broadcasters Convention – East Africa 2026 aims to provide a vital platform for industry stakeholders to exchange insights, share innovations, and shape the future of broadcasting in the region.
