The technical working group on Development of Media Guidelines on Artificial Intelligence, Data and Social Media began its sittings today. The team elected veteran journalist Mr Kennedy Bosire as the chairperson and Mediamax Head of TV Editorial Content Ms Ellen Wanjiru as the vice chairperson to lead in delivering its mandate.
After the elections, the team developed a work plan to guide the execution of its work.
Three subgroups were further established to focus on the key thematic areas of Artificial Intelligence, Data Governance, and Social Media and Internet.
Mr Mugambi Laibuta will lead the team handling Data Governance with the convenor being Mr Jeremiah Wakaya. Other team members include Michael Oriedo, Oliver Mathenge, Sarah Mumbua, Jared Kidambi, Kenneth Kibet and Ken Bosire.
On the other hand, Ms Caroline Kimutai was elected to lead the team tackling Social Media and Internet. The team will be convened by Mr Alex Ikambi, with other members including Alex Masiga, Susan Mute, Margaret Kalekye, Rosemary Mwangi, Paul Kaindo, Anhosi K’Obonyo, and John Okande.
Members of the third subgroup focusing on Artificial Intelligence will be led by Mr Michael Michie and convened by Mr Francis Mureithi. The team is also comprised of John Walubengo, Ellen Wanjiru, Silas Kiragu, Dr Gilbert Mugeni, George Omwodo, Fridah Naliaka, Eric Munene and Demas Kiprono who is a former Complaints Commissioner.
The technical working group is expected to deliver four guidelines on Reporting AI, Data Governance in Media and ethical guidelines on the Use of Social Media and the Internet by Journalists and Media Houses. The will also develop a Handbook on the Use of AI
The Media Council of Kenya CEO Mr David Omwoyo implored the technical working group to develop a document that will speak to the industry's needs.
He asked the team to work with speed to deliver on their mandate noting the importance of data in Artificial Intelligence.
“Data is the backbone of AI, and it is very important to take note of this even as you engage in the process of developing the documents”, said Mr Omwoyo during a meeting with the technical working group.
Mr Omwoyo noted the significance of the appointment saying that it’s aimed at advancing progressive discussions on AI which will in turn provide context for deliberations as well as elevate the country as a trailblazer in addressing the emerging technological trends brought about by AI.
“At the policy level we have had very elaborate discussions on the development of AI regulations, and you will be part of a team that will make history in Africa,” added the CEO.
He emphasised the need to interrogate the correlation between AI and language in relation to media operations.
“The developments have seen major changes and with the growing media ecosystem we would want to see the impact of language on community media operations,” he said.
The team of professionals working on the guidelines was constituted on 9th October 2023.