By Betty Luke
The Media Council of Kenya has called on journalists to embrace solution journalism instead of focusing on the usual man eat dog stories.
Speaking during the launch of the Isiolo Press Club, MCK Deputy CEO Victor Bwire said besides informing, educating and entertaining, journalists had a role to play in helping local communities tackle myriad of challenges they are faced with including climate change.
“Instead of telling people what they already know, shift focus and tell them the measures they could adopt to solve their issues. Add value to every story you tell,” said Mr Bwire.
While appreciating the work they do, the official encouraged the professionals to endeavor to showcase their skills through media awards and other avenues provided for by the council.
Isiolo County Commissioner Geoffrey Omoding hailed the journalists for being at the forefront in promoting a peaceful coexistence through peace related stories.
He called on the group to boldly expose wrongdoings among the duty-bearers without fear of intimidation.
“Even if it is the security team that has done wrong, just do your work and I will appreciate it. Do not fear to expose me or any other person whenever we do wrong. We will protect you because you are among key government partners,” he urged.
His sentiments were echoed by business moguls Peter Ngechu and Osman Shariff who urged the group to remain united.
“Consider coming up with SACCO where members will be able to access loans in case they need working gadgets like cameras and laptops or to sort out other needs,” he advised.
The MCK pledged to assist set up a digital hub in the county to ensure local journalists have a safe working space.
Mr Bwire said the center would be fully equipped with computers, and the internet among other crucial items and would also offer them space to create content that they could earn from.
Club’s Chairperson Waweru Wairimu appealed to the council to expedite the setting up of the hub, saying majority of the journalists had no offices to work from.
While appealing to the council to offer grants for journalists in the hardship areas on continuous basis, the official cited vastness of the county and insecurity among the challenges local journalists continued to face while covering stories.
Isiolo Press Club is the eleventh to be set up across the country. It will focus mainly on agitating for their rights and welfare of local journalists as well as various community empowerment activities.
