Media Council Decries Unfavorable Working Conditions for County Journalists
One of the eight media hubs already established is the Eldoret Media Hub, which stands out as a pioneer in the country.
A journalist working at the newly established Eldoret Media Hub.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has raised concerns over the challenging working conditions faced by journalists in various counties, which continue to hinder their ability to effectively inform the public.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 24, 2025, MCK highlighted key issues affecting journalists, including the absence of standard remuneration structures, closure of media house bureau offices, and a lack of adequate working spaces. According to MCK, these factors are forcing journalists to operate from unstable and unsafe locations such as hotels, bars, and court corridors.
“The closure of bureau offices has compelled journalists to pool resources to rent small offices, which further strains their already limited incomes,” said MCK CEO David Omwoyo. “Without proper workspaces, journalists face significant challenges in creating and disseminating credible content to the public.”
To address these challenges, MCK is spearheading efforts to establish additional media hubs across counties to provide journalists with conducive environments for their work. These hubs, the Council said, will serve as spaces for collaboration, networking, and content creation, enabling journalists to refine stories, share ideas, and produce quality content that can be monetized.
One of the eight media hubs already established is the Eldoret Media Hub, which stands out as a pioneer in the country. According to Mr. Omwoyo, the Eldoret hub has demonstrated the potential for such spaces to foster collaboration and improve working conditions for journalists.
“The Media Council of Kenya acknowledges the critical role journalists play in informing society and promoting democracy,” Mr. Omwoyo emphasized. “We are working with county governments and like-minded organizations to support the establishment of common working spaces. These partnerships will ensure journalists have the facilities they need to deliver accurate and timely information to the public.”
The Council expressed its commitment to expanding this initiative to ensure journalists across the country are supported in their mission to serve the nation effectively.
“The challenges we face as a sector should unite us. By addressing these issues collaboratively, we can strengthen the capacity of the media to promote press freedom and responsible journalism,” Mr. Omwoyo concluded.
The Media Council of Kenya reaffirmed its dedication to supporting journalists and advocating for better working conditions to enhance the dissemination of credible and timely news.
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