TV47 news anchor Shiksha Arora has publicly called out television and radio presenters who speak with what she termed as “fake” American and British accents while presenting programmes.
Speaking during a live broadcast on Wednesday, Arora questioned why some Kenyan media personalities choose to abandon their natural accents and adopt foreign ones, arguing that authenticity is more relatable to audiences.
The outspoken journalist said her comments were aimed at sparking a conversation on the importance of presenters embracing their identity and connecting with viewers and listeners in a genuine manner.
Arora’s remarks have since gone viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions from the public and fellow media professionals. Supporters praised her for challenging a trend they feel alienates local audiences, with many arguing that Kenyan media should reflect local culture and speech.
Others, however, defended the presenters in question, saying that accents should not be policed as long as communication is clear and professional.
In her comments, Arora emphasised that media personalities should focus on content delivery and audience engagement rather than attempting to sound foreign. “There is nothing wrong with the way Kenyans speak. We should be proud of our accents and present in a way that resonates with our people,” she said.
Industry experts have noted that this debate is not new, as similar conversations have emerged in the past regarding how news anchors and radio hosts speak. Some argue that neutral or global accents are often preferred to appeal to international audiences, particularly in stations with a wide reach.
Shiksha Arora, known for her vibrant personality and strong opinions, has called on media houses to encourage presenters to embrace their authentic voices, saying it will help build stronger trust and loyalty with audiences across Kenya.
By Newshub