The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has affirmed its commitment to support efforts to transform the country's media landscape.
The Council today joined media stakeholders, including industry, editorial leaders, and media interest groups, for deliberations towards strengthening the sector and exploring ways of promoting media sustainability.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire called for sustained and structured engagements between the media industry and government towards addressing legal and administrative challenges plaguing the industry.
"Kenya's media industry is overregulated and the presence of several players in the space has impacted press freedom. These kind of industry engagements towards reforming media operations are a great commitment to ensuring press freedom and responsible journalism in Kenya", said Mr Bwire at the workshop organised by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom in Mombasa.
Mr Bwire also spoke about the welfare of media workers, saying media organisations should review their remuneration structures to cope with the economic shocks in the industry and to ensure retention of skilled and motivated staff.
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Senior Project Manager Judie Kaberia called for enhanced sensitisation of lawmakers on media matters, saying they play a key role in addressing the industry challenges.
Participants called for a cohesive approach in addressing industry challenges by "building alliances and speaking with one voice".