The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged media managers to establish a comprehensive policy on safety and gender mainstreaming.
During a forum held by the Coast Broadcasters Association MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi emphasised the importance of putting the policies in place to foster an inclusive, unbiased, and enhance ethical media practices.
She said that the move will encompass the fundamental rights and well-being of journalists, while simultaneously championing the values of press freedom and democratic discourse.
“Through these policies, media managers will not only safeguard the physical and emotional safety of their teams but also pave the way for a transformative journey towards gender equality, social justice and amplification of marginalised voices within the media landscape”, she said.
Ms Mudi also underscored the importance of collaborating with associations, press clubs and special interest groups to boost journalists work.
“MCK intends to launch the Mombasa Press Club which will be the third at the Coastal region after Kwale and Kilifi Press Clubs. Launching of the Mombasa Media Hub will be a major milestone that will facilitate journalists in their operation”, she said.
The Coast Broadcasters Association Chairperson George Mwamodo emphasised the Association's goal of representing the coastal region media houses in collaborative marketing and facilitating capacity building opportunities.
“The absence of a negotiating platform has negatively impacted our revenues. As a result, our intention is to implement marketing as a collective effort to ensure equal distribution of resources", stated Mr Mwamodo.
He advised vernacular radio station managers to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve content creation and enhance audience experience.
“Collaborations with the Council on matters AI will equip journalists with unique skills to gather information and tell stories. AI can assist journalists to uncover the truth and provide a comprehensive understanding of complex issues”, he added.