Media Council Training Boosts Sports Journalism in Uasin Gishu as Experts Call for Deeper Storytelling
Sports journalists in Uasin Gishu convened at the Media Hub for a training by the Media Council of Kenya focused on improving professional sports reporting and storytelling.
Sports Journalist pose for a photo at the Eldoret Media Hub following a training session organized by the Media Council of Kenya to enhance sports reporting and storytelling skills in Uasin Gishu. Photo by Ibrahim Too
By Ruth Sang
Journalists in Uasin Gishu County have undergone a specialized training session aimed at strengthening sports reporting and storytelling in a region widely regarded as Kenya’s athletics powerhouse.
The engagement, organized by the Media Council of Kenya, brought together over 35 journalists to sharpen their skills in sports writing, broadcasting, and digital storytelling.
Speaking during the session, sports writer Bernard Rotich emphasized the urgency of improving sports coverage in the region.
“We’ve been able to share with journalists about the need to improve sports writing and reporting—be it broadcast, writing, or radio. This region is rich in athletics, and we have a lot of world beaters,” he said.
Rotich noted that the training comes at a significant moment as the country celebrates top athletic achievements, citing Sebastian Sawe.
“This is happening even as we celebrate one of the best athletes in the world, Sebastian Sawe, who has made headlines globally,” he added.
He also called for deeper engagement between journalists and athletes to uncover compelling human-interest stories.
“We need to interact more with athletes, visit them, and tell their stories to understand how champions are made,” he said.
Coaches also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the media’s role in promoting talent. Nicholas Koech, based in Kaptagat, praised the collaboration.
“Journalism has played a big role in sports promotion. Journalists work hard to ensure athletes are recognized from identification to the top level,” he said.
Koech urged for more inclusive forums involving coaches and athletes.
“We would love to see such meetings happening regularly, including coaches and athletes, so we can work together,” he added.
The Media Council of Kenya regional coordinator in Nakuru, Mecha Joseph, described the session as insightful and impactful.
“We’ve had a fruitful engagement with journalists, reminding ourselves of professional standards and how to monetize content,” he said.
He added that the training also focused on collaboration and athlete welfare.
“We are looking at how to work with key stakeholders to ensure the safety of sportsmen and women, while also highlighting their challenges and promoting sports development,” he explained.
Participants also expressed optimism about the future of sports journalism. Journalist Clinton Otienu said the session was transformative.
“I’ve learned a lot and engaged with experienced journalists. I believe sports journalism will take me far,” he said.
The training marks a renewed push to elevate sports reporting standards in Kenya, with stakeholders calling for continued engagements to support the growth of both media professionals and athletes.
About Author
