Journalists in Nandi County have been asked to uphold professionalism in their work by reporting accurately and objectively.
Nandi Deputy Governor, Dr. Yulita Mitei, and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. David Omwoyo, said media practitioners should highlight happenings in their localities, in a professional manner.
Speaking during the launch of the Nandi Press Club at a Kapsabet hotel, the leaders concurred that the establishment of the Club is not merely a symbolic gesture; rather, it is a testament to their commitment to fostering a vibrant and dynamic media landscape, that serves the interests of society.
“The platform will enable journalists from the region to collaborate, share ideas, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics,” said Dr. Mitei.
She commended MCK for their unwavering dedication to promoting excellence in journalism and for their support in establishing the Club.
The Deputy Governor affirmed the County government’s support to journalists, saying they play a critical role in highlighting developments in the region.
“We are open to working with the media to showcase the remarkable developments in our county, besides acting as the voices of our communities. We will continue enabling access to information from the County, to facilitate objective reporting,” she said.
Mr. Omwoyo said the media’s critical role in society calls for interrogation of issues to ensure objective reporting.
“While it is the role of journalists to act as the public watchdog, it is important that adherence to ethical and professional guidelines are upheld. Reporting must be done with dignity,” he said.
Mr. Omwoyo commended the scribes for the noble move, saying the formation of the Club will help journalists work together, share ideas on emerging media trends, and reflect on their welfare.
The CEO noted that the Council, through various partnerships, will establish 10 media hubs across the country to provide journalists with a safe space to undertake their work freely and in a professional manner.
“The hubs will provide space for news sources to share their stories with the media,” he said.
The Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Diocese of Kapsabet, Dr. Paul Korir, said media is the mirror of society, calling on scribes to work faithfully knowing that someone is watching.
He said that through the media, we celebrate the world as a global village. The more the role of media is amplified, the more people will be treated with respect and dignity, and society will be rated as civilised and mature.
“The role of media in Nandi County and the community cannot be overstated. The launch of your Press Club, will allow you to serve our people with accuracy and precision. There will be neither overlap nor competition since you will have to validate what goes to the public. We will never get a lot of, ‘I was misquoted’, he said.
Nandi County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Administration, Public Service, and e-Government, Isiah Keter, said the Club will foster unity among journalists and improve their working conditions.
He commended the media practitioners for upholding professionalism in their undertakings and pledged the county’s commitment to support media work and journalists’ welfare.
“Media is a profession with a higher calling, and we hope the Club will mentor upcoming journalists and promote growth. We look forward to greater partnership,” he said.
The Chairperson of the Club, Elwin Cherop, commended the Council for its relentless efforts in supporting journalists.
By Linet Wafula
