Journalists have been urged to explore earning an income from individual digital spaces instead of depending on employment from traditional media houses.
The call was made during the 5th annual Scribes End of Year Party held at Tamarind Tree Hotel.
Nairobi Leo founder and CEO Martin Wachira said the current turbulent scenes facing different media houses should serve as a wake-up call for journalists to explore alternatives to formal employment from traditional media houses.
‘"Each one of us can create a niche to monetize their own digital space, whether it is social media or just the website, and start something that can earn you an income,’ said Wachira while addressing the gathering.
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His sentiments were echoed by Scribes 254 President Roncliffe Odit.
Odit who is a Lead Presenter and Senior Reporter with the BBC Swahili, implored journalists to not only explore alternatives to earning an income but also take advantage of the digital space that is available for free especially when it comes to adaptation to the ever-changing digital space.
Susan Kimachia, a senior editor with Radio Africa Group, also called on journalists to always upscale their skills and have extra training to be more marketable.
‘Each day presents an opportunity to learn. As a journalist, you should not be okay with a certificate, a diploma or a degree. If you have means, go back to school. But also get an extra skill like video editing, which can be very useful in your personal space," she stated.
This year’s party was sponsored by HIVOS. HIVOS East Africa Regional Director Mr. Kennedy Mugochi promised their organisations support in the promotion and upholding of media freedom even as the industry goes through turbulent times.
He assured the journalists that Hivos would continue supporting their work by issuing grants and partnering with community media to highlight stories that help build social movements that strive for just, inclusive, and sustainable societies.
At the ceremony, 6 media and communications practitioners were feted for their great contribution to the Scribe 254 family and industry at large through their exemplary work in 2023.
The evening event saw journalists put down their cameras, pens, and notebooks and enjoy some good music, while MC Victor Juma of Bus Radio Kajiado and DJ Voltage ensured they were all on their feet.
