The Media Council of Kenya has been commended for supporting growth of the media profession across the country.
Meru Press Club Chairperson Mr David Muchui says the Council’s commitment to support media hubs has immensely contributed to enhanced professionalism especially among community media.
“The Meru Press Club was established through the Council’s financial grants and continues to offer a safe and conducive working environment for journalists. The MCK grants have helped us to fundraise and establish a welfare committee which focuses on investments and members' welfare”, he told MCK Meru Regional Coordinator Mr Joseph Mecha who visited the media hub in Meru town for a needs assessment.
He expressed optimism that the Council’s further support will transform the centre into a fully-fledged media hub offering journalists varied services.
The Club’s Vice Chairperson Ms Dorcas Mbatia noted that unemployment remains a major challenge facing journalists in Meru, adding that more than 20 journalists who are members lost their jobs during the COVID-19 period.
“Job opportunities for journalists are becoming scarce and leaving them financially insecure and affecting their mental health”, said Ms Mbatia.
MCK Meru Region Coordinator Mr Joseph Mecha applauded the Meru Press Club’s decision to set up media centre saying it will increase resource availability, provide space and conducive working environment for journalists.
“I applaud your decision to set up a media centre at this very strategic location. The centre will not only provide space and a conducive working environment but also increase resource availability and offer journalists a chance to interact and file stories”, said Mr Mecha.
He urged the officials to utilise the facility and jointly seek support from potential stakeholders to ensure seamless operation.
In efforts to create a long-term solution, Meru Press Club members are looking into creating employment and internship opportunities by opening an online newspaper and community radio to improve the expertise of the journalists. Additionally, the Meru Press Club is exploring different income generating avenues such as production of documentaries and engaging in media consultancy services.
“The centre will offer employment and internship opportunities by providing practical work experience and instilling work ethics”, said Ms Mbatia.