The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on journalists to actively champion climate change awareness, recognising the media's crucial role in educating the public, fostering dialogue and promoting solutions to the climate crisis.
Speaking at the launch of Pwani FM's World Radio Day week, MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi emphasised radio's enduring influence and its potential to address climate change by educating and inspiring communities to take action.
"As radio professionals, your work carries great responsibility. You have a unique opportunity to inform audiences about the realities of climate change while instilling hope and driving action. Through your stories, interviews, and discussions, you can not only highlight the challenges we face but also showcase viable solutions”, said Ms Mudi.
She also stressed the importance of ethical reporting. "While doing this, remember that accuracy and ethics should be your guiding principles. Climate change can be a divisive topic if presented carelessly. Avoid sensationalism and instead focus on solutions. Be the trusted source your listeners can rely on in these critical times”, she advised.
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) Mombasa Regional Controller Joseph Cheruiyot echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the role of radio professionals as storytellers, educators and community leaders.
"Radio has long been a trusted source of information and a bridge to underserved communities. It has the unique ability to reach every corner of our society, making it a powerful tool for raising awareness and driving change on climate issues”, said Mr Cheruiyot.
Pwani FM Station Manager Maximillah Walukhu outlined plans for audience engagement leading up to World Radio Day, including interviews with veteran radio professionals, celebrating radio's role in uniting communities and fostering growth.
The World Radio Day celebrations underscore the continuing importance of radio in shaping public discourse and promoting meaningful conversations on critical global issues.