The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has reiterated the need to strengthen communication between maritime security and journalists to enhance blue economy reporting and access to information.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire noted that lack of consistent and effective communication between journalists and the Kenya Coast Guard Service (KCGS), has led to a negative impact on the quality of maritime safety reporting.
He brought out the role of the media in reporting maritime security while alluding to the media security dialogue programme under the Council.
“We need in-depth focused reporting on the blue and circular economy. The Council intends to collaborate with KCGS to enable journalists to access information while ensuring national security is not compromised”, said Mr Bwire at a Blue Economy Stakeholder Dialogue in Mombasa.
He called on the KCGS management to leverage the Council on Media Relations to enhance their professional approach to the media and improve maritime reporting for journalists.
KCGS Director General Bruno Shioso challenged journalists to cultivate synergies and networks that promote the blue economy.
He acknowledged the need for training journalists on effective writing and digital media campaigns in bolstering maritime safety reporting.
“The media plays a crucial role in the success of the KCGS. We need to foster connections with the media to highlight African narratives”, said Mr Shioso.
MCK Manager for Press Freedom Safety and Advocacy Dinnah Ondari asked the journalists to exercise caution while using their access to information privilege to prioritise the dissemination of reliable information to the public.
“Journalists reporting on maritime security and blue economy can exercise their right to information by researching and analysing key issues impacting Kenya’s territorial waters. To cultivate a more profound public understanding, it is imperative to mobilise support for the blue economy and promote knowledge sharing on maritime best practices”, said Ms Ondari.
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) reporter Juney Karisa implored the KCGS officials to conduct formal engagements with the media especially on training to enhance maritime reporting.