The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has underscored the essential role journalists play in raising awareness and championing the rights of older persons, particularly in tackling ageism and age discrimination in Kenya.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire highlighted the media’s power to shape narratives that uphold the dignity and rights of older individuals.
“This is an urgent issue requiring attention. The Constitution of Kenya protects older persons, and from a journalism perspective, it’s a critical topic”, Mr Bwire stated at a media sensitisation forum on ageism and age discrimination in Nairobi.
He outlined the Council’s commitment to embedding age-related issues into media training, travel grants and curriculum development, ensuring journalists are equipped to report effectively on these matters.
“We train journalists through mentorship, coaching and experiential learning. This forum offers a chance to explore how MCK can integrate ageism-related themes into our training programmes and even the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya”, he explained.
Mr Bwire urged journalists to shift from sympathy-driven reporting to a fact-based, rights-oriented approach.
“It’s not about pitying older persons; it’s about understanding their challenges and reporting in ways that spark change,” he remarked.
He also encouraged media practitioners to tap into MCK’s resources to expand their networks and enhance their coverage of age-related topics.
Titus Abworo, Founder and Executive Director of the Ageing Concern Foundation (ACF), reaffirmed his organisation’s dedication to collaborating with stakeholders to review legislation and bolster protections for older persons in Kenya.
The forum concluded with a call for greater media involvement in shaping policies and public perceptions about ageing and the rights of older persons, underscoring journalism’s pivotal role in fostering an inclusive and respectful society.