Editor's Review

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has joined the world in marking the world press freedom day which is commemorated annually on 3rd May. 

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has joined the world in marking the world press freedom day which is commemorated annually on 3rd May. 

The Council has urged all to uphold the safety of journalists as they undertake their rightful duties.

"MCK continues to advocate for journalists’ safety by involving stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies to address cases of harassment of journalists. Further, the Council will continue pushing for efforts to provide a conducive working environment for journalists.

"We urge media owners to remunerate media workers appropriately to cushion them against rising costs of living, which ultimately translates to enhanced independence of our media," part of the statement read. 

In celebrating the 2022 World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), the Media Council of Kenya will hold two main events: The Annual Media Summit on Thursday, 5th May 2022, and the 10th Annual Journalism Excellence Awards (AJEA) on the evening of 6th May 2022.

MCK will also host over 30 heads of press councils from across the world for their 19th Annual General Meeting of the World Association of Press Councils (WAPC) from 4th to 6th May 2022. 

{File image of MCK CEO David Omwoyo}

This year’s WPFD theme “Journalism Under Digital Siege” focuses on the impact of recent technological developments on freedom of expression, the safety of journalists, access to information and privacy.

The Annual Media Summit will bring together policymakers, award-winning journalists, media representatives, specialised NGOs, activists, stakeholders in the field of media, Artificial Intelligence and ICT and legal experts to explore and develop concrete solutions to current and emerging challenges to press freedom and privacy.

The discussions will also centre around media preparedness in harnessing opportunities and confronting emerging challenges in election coverage, the role of the media in fighting misinformation and mental health as a priority in the post-COVID recovery.

MCK will share data with stakeholders on the status of various issues affecting press Freedom.