The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged journalists to adapt to changes in journalism by optimising on online platforms.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire implored journalists to embrace digital storytelling and building their personal brands online by exploring new exposition formats such as podcasts, livestreaming and interactive articles.
“Journalists ought to embrace digital storytelling and building of their personal brand online as this will help in gaining visibility and credibility as they collaborate with other professionals to leverage their network”, said Mr Bwire at a Media and Information Literacy Forum in Eldoret.
He further underscored the need for journalists to prioritise human interest stories in their reporting in order to be impactful and informative.
He encouraged journalists to form press clubs to strengthen their professional networks, advocate for press freedom and promote ethical standards.
“With the abundance of information online, journalists should prioritise fact-checking and verification of stories to counter misinformation”, he said.
He emphasized the need for journalists to have safety measures in place, adding that this will help in risk mitigation, increase resilience and ensure there is safety of journalists reporting in challenging environments.
“We call upon media organisations to provide resources, trainings and offer support to their journalists to help them develop effective safety plans”, he said.
MCK Nakuru Regional Coordinator Joseph Mecha urged journalists to re-evaluate the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya and recommit themselves to the principles and regulations governing their profession.
“Through adhering to the Code of Conduct, journalists can cover stories with accuracy, professionalism and objectivity”, said Mecha.
He further underscored the significant role that journalists play in combating hate speech on social media and urged Journalist to avoid the use of sensational headlines when posting on their personal platforms.
MCK Kisumu Regional Coordinator Teddy Oundo talked about the importance of personal finance management and the need for journalists to have a firm foundation in managing their finances.