Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has called upon media institutions to fortify their structures and push for greater press freedom in the face of mounting threats to journalistic integrity and independence.
Prof Nyong’o decried that journalists and media organisations often encounter formidable challenges in their quest to report truthfully and hold power to account.
Speaking during the launch of the Kisumu Media Hub and the Digital Content Production Centre today, the Governor noted that despite many challenges, the media organisations can continue to fulfill their vital role as guardians of democracy by fostering a culture of resilience and solidarity.
“Because journalism is a fundamental tool for development, we must not get discouraged by the challenges but look at them as opportunities and avenues to become more resilient and creative,” stated the County Boss.
Commenting on the current state of the media landscape, Prof Nyong’o stated, “It is deeply concerning, as traditional media faces unprecedented disruptions. Media houses are grappling with harsh economic realities, leading to widespread layoffs and downsizing as they struggle to adapt to rapidly changing consumer behavior.”
The rise of digital news platforms, he added, has further exacerbated this situation, with traditional news reporting being overshadowed by the immediacy and accessibility of online sources.
He stressed the need to address these challenges even as the media landscape continues to evolve to safeguard the vital role of journalism in informing and engaging society.
The governor lauded the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) for their innovative strides in establishing the Media Hubs and Digital Content Production Centres set to offer homegrown interventions that would significantly contribute to the growth and enhancement of the media landscape.
With these facilities, Prof Nyong’o emphasised, local talents would have access to state-of-the-art resources and platforms to amplify their voices and showcase their creativity, ultimately enriching the cultural and informational tapestry of the community.
“It is exciting to note that the Council is committed to opening the media hubs and content production centers to support journalists, media practitioners and independent content creators to harness their efforts in undertaking their duties for professional enhancement,” he stated.
Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o (L) and the CEO, Media Council of Kenya, David Omwoyo cut the ribbon during the official launch of the Kisumu Media Hubs and Digital Content Production Center on Friday. Photo by Joseph Ouma
Kisumu is the latest County to benefit from the establishment of the Digital Media Hubs sponsored by the MCK after Busia and Kisii Counties. The initiative seeks to bolster journalistic quality and support entrepreneurial endeavors in media.
Speaking about the launch, the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya, David Omwoyo observed that the hubs are set to serve as centralized platforms where primary users can curate, organize, and distribute relevant content.
Aligned with the Council’s strategic focus, Mr Omwoyo added, these hubs aim to provide journalists with a conducive and dignified working environment, fostering innovation and collaboration.
“By promoting entrepreneurial journalism as a viable alternative in the media landscape, the initiative seeks to enhance the overall quality of journalistic work while addressing challenges in media viability,” Omwoyo stated.
The Council, Omwoyo announced, plans to conduct training and mentorship forums by inviting specialists and seasoned journalists to impart their wisdom and insights to budding reporters to bolster their journalistic skills.
“These forums will serve as platforms for knowledge exchange, where veterans will share their experiences and reflections, offering invaluable guidance to the next generation of journalists. With a focus on honing skills and fostering a supportive network, this endeavor promises to elevate the standards of journalism while nurturing talent within the community,” he observed.
Kisumu Journalists Network Chairperson, Dorine Magak, welcomed the initiative stressing the pivotal role journalists play in shaping public discourse. She issued a compelling call to journalists to leverage the Digital Hubs as vital tools in their storytelling arsenal.
At the same time, Magak underscored the importance of providing context, fostering understanding, and cultivating a sense of shared humanity in news coverage.
“I am confident that this digital content hub will not only adapt to the challenges of the digital age but also lead the way in shaping the future of journalism,” she stated.