The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged media practitioners to prioritise ethical reporting and content creation amid the ongoing digital transformation.
MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi says journalists and digital content creators bear the responsibility of maintaining ethical standards across all platforms.
“Despite the shifting media landscape, the ethical and professional principles of journalism must remain our guide,” she said at a capacity-building session at Maono Space in Malindi.
Ms Mudi encouraged self-reflection among practitioners to ensure their work positively impacts society.
“Local content, rooted in our everyday environment like the diverse coastal culture, should engage audiences with well-crafted, meaningful narratives,” she advised.
Noting underreported topics such as climate change and the blue economy in the coastal region, Ms Mudi called for collaboration with stakeholders and experts to develop specialised reporting curricula. She also cautioned against plagiarism, urging practitioners to leverage MCK’s media hubs for creative, original content production.
MCK Media Analyst Ben Serem underscored the importance of fact-checking to ensure accuracy in digital journalism.
“While social media enables rapid news sharing, it can also spread misinformation. Verifying sources and cross-referencing content builds trust and ensures responsible production,” he said.
Mr Serem highlighted Kenya’s rising internet penetration, noting its potential for media growth.
“With a significant increase in online audiences this year, your niche can set you apart. Use social media platforms to engage audiences and adopt monetization strategies to capitalise on the expanding digital space,” he encouraged.