The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) Civil Peace Service (CPS) has underscored the importance of enhancing conflict-sensitive reporting in promoting peace.
Speaking at a training for journalists on conflict-sensitive reporting during elections in Kitale, MCK’s Assistant Director for Media Training and Curriculum Development Ms Christine Nguku highlighted the role of the media in influencing peace in the country. She noted that improving professionalism and effectiveness of media practitioners and strengthening the existing media landscape is crucial to the pre-election preparatory processes.
“An independent and professional media that is cognisant of conflict- sensitive reporting can promote positive contribution in peacebuilding in the country”, said Ms Nguku.
She urged journalists to take necessary precautions when reporting in volatile environments, adding that journalists should have backup for their data and don comfortable attire to enable them manouvre in case of emergencies or attacks.
MCK Manager for Accreditation and Compliance Ms Rebecca Mutiso urged journalists to adhere to the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya to promote objective reporting and maintain the integrity of their profession. She said journalists must remember their first responsibility is to the public.
“The Code of Conduct guides that journalists should not abuse their position with personal bias or give skewed reports on stories their cover. They should always maintain integrity when reporting”, said Ms Mutiso.
MCK Trainer Ms Yvonne Mwende emphasised on the need to adhere to the principles of truth, accuracy and impartiality. She added that fair and accurate journalism and media content builds confidence and counteracts misperception.
“Journalists need to remember that they have a responsibility in shaping the agenda, people’s attitude and influence behaviour”, she said.
MCK trainer Ms Julian Kamau afformed the need to improve reporting and coverage of gender balance to eliminate stereotypes, especially those touching on women.
Ms Kamau said the media needs to investigate ways to protect female reporters in the newsrooms because of the challenges they face. She decried the focus by media on negative stories that touch on women and their framing of intrusive questions targeting their personal lives.
“Journalists need to be considerate and sensitive when framing questions and stories targeting women”, she said.
Through the training, the Council seeks to enhance co-existence among communities and improve coverage of the electoral process, according to the election coverage guidelines 2022.