Former PRSK chair Peter Mutie (R ) and M3 Communication group CEO Maxim Behar (L). [Photo/Maxwell]
A Bill set to be introduced in parliament to regulate the public relations and communication profession in the country has received major support from stakeholders countrywide.
Speaking after a three-day workshop which brought together over 150 public relations and communication practitioners at Shanzu Pride Inn in Mombasa came to an end on Friday, Former Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) chair Peter Mutie said the practice needed regulations so that it attains international standards.
Mutie who is also the CEO of Peterson Integrated Communication Limited, an International public relations firm, said that like any other profession, the practice needed regulation and authorization.
“You cannot open a dispensary and start treating patients if you have not attained the medicine accreditation from the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentist Union’s board. The PR practice should also be regulated,” he said.
Mutie said if the Bill sails through, the profession will be highly valued and specific guidelines will be provided to all practitioners.
He said the invasion of crooks in the profession has negatively impacted the profession as companies are being reaped off by crooks pretending to be professional public relations and communication specialists.
“We also need a specific PR Institute to train professionals and issue them with certification as well as continuous training for those already practicing,” he added.
He said the society will push for the introduction of the Bill in the National Assembly so that the profession is protected.
During the opening of the conference, State Department for Broadcasting and Communication PS Sammy Itemere said he supports the new regulations aimed at protecting public relations and communication professionals in the country.