There is a need to strengthen local media stations operating in counties in order to boost devolution and matters governance.
This can be achieved through a partnership between Media, civil society and Kenya Editors’ Guild in addressing challenges affecting devolution and matters governance.
Speaking in Nakuru on Monday during a Kenya Editors’ Guild training for journalists on reporting on devolution, Masese Kemunche from Nakuru based Centre for Enhancing Democracy and good governance-CED while appreciating the role played by Media called for collaboration.
According to the Human rights’ defender, the media is an institution that has a greater role in shaping governance and society at large.
“I think as it stands now there is a need for Media to partners with Civil society groups in addressing matters such as corruption that are affecting devolution in this country,” said Masese.
The Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo who also attended the forum assuring journalist of their security in the line of duty.
Mr.Omwoyo cautioned those masquerading as journalists without accreditation that the law will face up with them.
On the emergence of various FM stations and local editions, the MCK CEO commending the move adding that it will help in highlighting the successes of devolution.
According to him, already the Media Council of Kenya has requested Parliament for a funding i.e Media Diversity Fund that will help support the upcoming Community media houses that do not get a lot from the advertisement.
“In supporting the upcoming media houses, we have already requested parliament for funding that will see affirmative action to help our upcoming media houses in counties,” said Omwoyo.
The forum that brought together members of the civil society, editors, journalists and county officials saw a heated debate with civil society groups raising claims that media has been ignoring local stories that have a great impact on the society.
According to the civil society members, media always give priority to political leaders and neglect the real issues.
“Gone are the days when we used to have real news that you could rush at home to listen or watch. The media is now focusing so much on political leaders and ignoring the citizens” said Denis Okomol- a member of Nakuru Analysts group in Nakuru.
However, according to Kenya Editors’ Guild Trustee Macharia Gaitho, no story relating to citizens and devolution can be ‘killed’ by editors.
He called on members of the civil society groups and citizens, in general, to understand how media operates before pointing a finger.
“There is no story that can be ignored but it is important to understand how media operates,” said Gaitho.
Similar sentiments echoed by KEG Executive Council member Ms Everlyne Kwamboka and David Wahito who is a member of the Kenya Editors Guild.
The two appealing on citizens to make good use of the county media stations in airing their stories and matters devolution.
Nakuru Deputy Governor Dr.Erick Korir who graced the forum lauded the role played by media in shaping matters governance.
He reiterated the county’s commitment to working closely with the Editors’ Guild in addressing the challenges facing the country as well as telling the positive devolution stories.
“Since we came to office we have had a good relation with our journalists here in Nakuru. We look forward to working with the Kenya Editors’ Guild in addressing some of the challenges facing us but also telling the success stories” said Dr.Korir.
The Forum was also attended by Nakuru County Director for Communication Ms Beatrice Obwocha and Community Health Volunteers among others.