The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) is advising journalists and media practitioners to uphold professionalism as they inform, educate and entertain the masses.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo says the media’s critical role in society calls for interrogation of issues to ensure objective reporting.
“While it is the role of journalists to act as the public’s watchdog, it is important that adherence to ethical and professional guidelines are upheld. Reporting must be done with dignity”, said Mr Omwoyo today when he launched the Kericho Press Club in Kericho County today.
“The measure of press freedom is a healthy tension between journalists and sources especially government because the work of the media is to hold those in power to account. However, this disagreement should be dignified and constructive”, he said.
He at the same time urged journalists and media practitioners plying their trade in Kenya to accredit with the Council, saying it is a legal requirement that seeks to weed out quacks.
“You must be accredited to be recognised as a journalist in Kenya . The Media Council of Kenya is required by law to only engage with accredited media workers and we must separate professionals from quacks”, he said.
He underscored the place of press clubs, saying they bring together journalists with a common interest and contributes to enhanced professionalism. He urged members of the press club to embrace sound governance and acceptable conduct both at personal and professional levels.
“By being members of a group pursuing a common goal, it is important that you engage each other with respect and dignity while upholding decorum in your conduct. You must be firm in your efforts to put the group together. You are the face of the society and as such there is high expectation on how you behave”, said Mr Omwoyo.
The MCK CEO welcomed collaborations with the County Government of Kericho to establish a digital content production centre in the County.
Kericho County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo urged the media to embrace technology in their undertakings, following the transformation of the media landscape.
“The media field is getting crowded by the day and is extremely competitive. This calls for innovation for you to have a competitive edge and survive in the market", he said.
He commended the Council for supporting the establishment of press clubs in Kenya, saying such formations boost professionalism besides addressing journalists’ welfare challenges.
Kericho County Chief Officer for Sports, ICT, Gender and Youth Geoffrey Korir affirmed the County Government’s support to media work and welcomed a partnership with the Media Council to set up a media hub in the County.
Kericho Press Club chairperson Audrey Chemutai commended the Media Council for supporting the establishment of the group, saying it will provide a platform for enhanced collaborations between local journalists and with other stakeholders.
She encouraged the Council to continue extending trauma counseling support to journalists in the face of rising mental health problems among members of the Fourth Estate.
In Kapsabet, the Nandi Press Club was launched with speakers urging journalists to uphold professionalism.
Nandi County Deputy Governor Dr Yulita Mitei Cheruiyot commended the Media Council of Kenya for its support to media development in the country.
She affirmed the County government’s support to journalists, saying they play a critical role in highlighting developments in the area.
“We are open to work with the media in showcasing the remarkable developments in our county besides acting as voices of our communities. We will continue enabling access to information from the county to facilitate objective reporting”, she said.
The DG urged journalists to uphold professional ethics, calling for the need for balanced reporting on various aspects.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo commended duty bearers who collaborate with the media, saying they have contributed to Kenya’s progress.
“Those allowing the media to do their work contribute to eradicating the three key challenges that faced Kenya as an infant nation namely poverty, ignorance and disease. It is important that this is upheld”, he said.
Mr Omwoyo revealed plans by the Council to pursue partnerships to provide working spaces for journalists in the country.