The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged Mombasa based journalists to adhere to professional and ethical standards as stipulated in the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya when reporting on blue economy.
Speaking during a training that brought together Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) and Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) officials at the Technical University of Mombasa, MCK Senior Officer, Training Standards and Curriculum Development Mr Julius Sigei underscored the importance of adhering to the specified professional and ethical standards, stating that journalists have a responsibility to sensitise, inform and empower the public.
“Journalists have a duty to comply with the media code of conduct and to inform, sensitise and empower the public with accurate information", said Mr Sigei.
The Technical University of Mombasa Dean of Humanities Dr Victor Lustsili noted that engaging the media is crucial to informing and driving public debate about the blue economy among local communities, national and regional decision-makers.
“Engaging the media in blue economy will not only strengthen the capacity of local reporters and media outlets but also produce and disseminate trusted information”, he said.
Acting KMA Director General Mr John Omingo stated that journalists need to explore more on matters pertaining to the United Nations Code on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) 40:40:20 formula, that covers ship acquisition, cargo sharing and shipping activities.
“The code states that 40 percent of the total volume of cargo traffic and revenue is reserved for indigenous ships, another 40 percent for carriers of cargo originating in destination countries while the remaining 20 percent goes to third flag carriers”, he said.
MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Ms Maureen Mudi took the participants through story ideas on blue economy by mapping out key areas that seek to promote blue economy and maritime development.