The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on press clubs to adopt a proactive and innovative approach to overcome challenges and enhance their operations.
Speaking during a media stakeholders’ forum in Taita Taveta County, MCK’s Mombasa Regional Coordinator (RC) Maureen Mudi emphasised the critical role press clubs play in fostering professional journalism, mentorship, and collaboration at the grassroots level.
“Press clubs are vital spaces for collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth. MCK recognises their importance and is committed to supporting them. We urge clubs to be proactive in addressing their challenges,” said Mudi.
Ms Mudi alluded to leadership gaps and resource constraints as hindrances that have slowed the clubs’ activities. She reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to offering support, emphasising ownership of the club to ensure its revitalisation.
“We are calling for unity within the press club and dialogue with the county government. The Council is ready to facilitate this process, but internal unity and focus are essential. Press clubs must be innovative, embrace digital tools, and modernise their operations,” she said.
Taita Taveta Press Club Treasurer Lucy Mkanyika cited financial constraints as a major hurdle.
“We’ve lacked the resources needed to effectively run the club. The vision is there, but we need capacity-building support to bring it to life,” she explained.
Assistant Chairperson Silvester Kituku further highlighted a strained relationship with the county executive.
“The Taita Taveta County Government executive seems to view us with distrust, yet we are merely journalists carrying out our duties in accordance with a professional code. It is challenging to operate effectively in an atmosphere marked by tension and misunderstanding,” he said.
Ms Mudi acknowledged the concerns, pledging the Council’s assistance to facilitate a mediation forum between the press club and the county leadership.
She also stressed the importance of equipping press clubs with the tools and skills needed for sustainability.
“The Council is ready to offer leadership training and mentorship programmes to strengthen the club’s foundation. We also expect to see a clear status report on the club’s progress and activities going forward,” she noted.
She urged for greater collaboration between the media and county governments, noting that a united and well-organised press club could significantly enhance local journalism, promote accountability, and boost civic engagement.
“A united press club can do so much for local journalism. Let us work together to rebuild this one. The potential here is immense, and with the right support, it can be unlocked,” she said.