The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has encouraged journalists to pursue impactful storytelling by selecting subjects they are passionate about and delving beyond superficial narratives.
In partnership with the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), the MCK held a media sensitisation forum in Kisii County to enhance journalists’ roles in accurate, professional, and stigma-free reporting on HIV and other interrelated health conditions.
MCK Assistant Director for Training and Curriculum Development Christine Nguku urged journalists to embrace authenticity and deeper reflection in health stories.
“Consider the interconnectedness of the issues you cover. Explore possibilities and reflect on how health stories can shape history if told well,” she said.
MCK Manager for Press Freedom, Safety and Advocacy Leo Mutisya highlighted the mental health challenges journalists face, often due to trauma and social pressures. He advocated for supportive environments where journalists can openly discuss mental health without fear of judgement.
“We must break the silence around mental health and foster well-being in newsrooms,” he stated.
NSDCC Nyanza Regional Manager, Steve Oyugi, stressed the importance of contextual reporting on social health issues. Citing 2022 data from Bonchari, Bomachoge and Borabu—where 25 per cent of antenatal care attendees were girls aged 10–19—he urged journalists to uncover the root causes behind such figures.
“The media must expose societal issues to drive policy action,” he said, emphasising the need for accurate data to effect meaningful change.
The forum highlighted the power of storytelling in shaping public understanding and policy, while promoting journalists’ mental well-being and the value of in-depth, responsible reporting for better public health outcomes.