The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has encouraged content creators to use storytelling as a tool for driving change and narrowing the digital divide.
MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi emphasised the vital role of local content creators in keeping communities informed.
“Creating content that connects with your local audience starts with understanding them. This allows you to carve a niche with meaningful, impactful stories”, she said during a media capacity-building forum organised by the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) at a Mombasa hotel.
Ms Mudi highlighted the power of digital platforms in improving access to information and urged participants to use these tools to both gather and share knowledge with their communities.
“Leverage traditional platforms to reach those without Internet access. Community-based content hubs can deliver relevant stories and ensure broader reach”, she added.
She also stressed the importance of building a personal brand through compelling storytelling and content monetisation, reaffirming the Council’s dedication to promoting credible information through partnerships with aligned organisations.
BAKE Chairman Kennedy Kachwanya urged bloggers and creators to establish personal blogs alongside their social media presence.
“Social media accounts can be shut down if posts are flagged, but owning a blog gives you control over your content and opens up diverse monetization opportunities”, he explained.
Mombasa Press Club Chairman Omar Abdallah addressed the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation in the digital era.
He called on bloggers and content creators to prioritise fact-checking to ensure accuracy.
“Scrutinise content carefully to discern its intent. Consider the purpose behind the information and the motives of those sharing it”, he advised.
Held under the theme Bridging the Digital Divide and Expanding Access to Accurate Information, the forum brought together bloggers, digital marketers, journalists and journalism students to explore these critical issues.