This year’s World Press Freedom Day carried a poignant theme: “A Press for the Planet.” In Kenya, journalists found themselves wading through floodwaters, their boots submerged, as their camera lenses witnessed the turmoil afflicting communities across the nation. But Kenya’s struggles are part of a larger picture. Globally, journalists marked the occasion amidst a spectrum of crises. Some reporting from the frontlines of conflict, like the harrowing situation in Gaza. Others turned their focus to environmental challenges like documenting coral erosion in Ghana, the brutal grip of drought in Zimbabwe, and the relentless encroachment of rising seas in Indonesia.
In the face of these challenges, the role of journalists becomes increasingly critical. As the world leans on them for insight and understanding, their need for freedom to carry out their work grows ever more pressing.
I had the privilege of being selected by UNESCO East Africa for Kenya’s first-ever Youth Multimedia Room, alongside fellow young changemakers like Wesley, Zamzam, Tevivona, Immaculate, Shelmith, Viola, Lutta, Linah, Kamadi, and Nelson. Together, we joined celebrations organized by the Media Council of Kenya, while Shampi and Sylvia represented us in Santiago, Chile. Collaborating with such a diverse and talented team was quite inspiring. Throughout the event, we left no stone unturned, engaging in in-depth discussions with panelists, renowned media personalities and various stakeholders.
Before the programme officially kicked off, Mr. Victor Bwire brought energy into the room. He got people talking by sharing stories from the media world. At one point, he raised a thought-provoking question, asking whether there was anything professionally ethical about recording video clips of people drowning in a river, alluding to a recent clip circulating in Kenyan media. He also sprinkled in a few light-hearted jokes about his own ethnicity, being a Luhya.
Right on time, Mr. Johnson Mwakazi stepped up to moderate the session, his voice deep, heavy, and well balanced like a finely tuned instrument. It was moment for many of us who have only heard his voice in advertisements at Royal Media Services. With his firm physique, impeccably sharp outfit, and acute professionalism, he effortlessly guided the panel discussions, leaving no doubt as to why he was chosen for the role.
During the opening session, Mr. Oduor , the Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Journalists intrigued us when he stated that journalists need to sort out their own freedom before trying to change the world. He called out some media companies that don’t pay their staff for months, making it difficult for journalists to do their job well.
Then, Mr. Alexandros Mkarigakis PhD, Regional Director at UNESCO said something surprising: he stated there’s no such thing as a natural disaster anymore; they are all hazards because of the human element. He also pointed out that reporting on climate issues is super risky for journalists, almost as risky as reporting on wars. He stressed that UNESCO strongly supports both press freedom and a media that advocates for a safer planet for everyone.
Ms. Agnes Kalekye spoke about the importance of telling real stories through journalism, and how it can make a big difference in people’s lives and inspire climate action. Her words reminded me of our mission at MuemAction Post: to inspire action on social issues through empowering people with knowledge.
Like a good leader, Mr. David Omwoyo, the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya, stepped onto the stage with a sense of optimism that was truly inspiring. He took a moment to honor the journalists who have lost their lives while serving their duty. He also pointed out something quite encouraging: that Kenya’s media industry is expanding, both in terms of its size and its reputation for keeping the nation well-informed.
But perhaps the most striking statement he made was about the essence of a free press. He boldly declared that if you truly support the idea of a free press, you must be willing to tolerate journalists who might sometimes annoy you
Hon. John Kiarie spoke really eloquently about how important it is for the media to be free for us to develop as a nation and as a part of Africa. He recommended that we should talk more about heroes like Wangari Maathai on TV and in newspapers to make the news more about real people and our planet. Kiarie added that Kenya and Africa should be ready to lead in the upcoming tech revolution. He promised that Parliament would keep backing media freedom. Everyone felt reassured after his speech.
Speaking for the government, PS Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani called upon journalists to continue their noble duty of informing the public, telling the truth and holding all stakeholders, including the government, accountable. He affirmed the government’s respect for press freedom and information rights. Furthermore, he recognized the media as governance partners, particularly inviting them to collaborate in addressing climate change.
Key insights from panelists towards a free press for the planet:
- Media houses require increased financial resources to support effective and accurate climate reporting.
- Journalists and media practitioners should simplify climate knowledge for ordinary citizens and improve storytelling techniques.
- The government must uphold press freedom and refrain from targeting journalists who expose wrongdoing.
- Media outlets should be proactive and consistent in addressing climate change, not just reporting during disasters.
- Journalists need to prioritize their safety, recognizing that no story is worth risking their lives for.
I also noted that from the statistics on the most watched TV stations and listened-to radio stations in Kenya, three vernacular stations from historically politically influential communities dominated the list. This trend suggests that these communities have better access to information and knowledge compared to others, whose vernacular media outlets were nowhere in the rank. It’s a wake-up call to ensure all Kenyans, regardless of their community or language, can access information through both social and mainstream media channels, especially during crises, national decision-making processes, and for raising awareness about climate change.
Additionally, I must commend the impeccable organization of the event. Bravo to the Media Council of Kenya and all partners involved for the seamless structure. From the clear communication leading up to the event to the well-coordinated activities on the day itself, you serve as a shining example that government entities can indeed be efficient and reliable. Thank you for graciously hosting us.
To UNESCO East Africa and the National Freedom of Expression and Content Moderation in Kenya (FECoMo), led by John Okande and Sharmaine, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the privilege of collaborating with you and representing MuemAction Post. Looking forward to more transformative initiatives for the betterment of our society.
Boniface Harrison is a Community Social Worker in Environmental Advocacy and the Executive Director at MuemAction Post. Email: boniface@muemactionpost.org