Kenyan Media and CSOs Call for Strengthening Civic Space and Press Freedom

Kenya: Journalists and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Kenya have united to advocate for the protection and enhancement of civic space, emphasizing the independent yet complementary roles of both entities in promoting government transparency and accountability.

According to Kenya News Agency, Chairperson of the Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA), speaking at a recent event, the access to information is a fundamental right that enables citizens to hold public officials accountable and engage effectively in democratic processes. “In Kenya, as in many countries, transparency, accountability, and citizen participation are essential elements of good governance,” Janak stated.

Janak also touched upon the increasing influence of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in Kenya, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs). He noted that these technological advancements present both opportunities and challenges for civil society and the media, particularly regarding their impact on elections and democratic processes.

Over recent decades, the landscape of press freedom in Kenya has evolved, presenting a more complex and dynamic media environment that reflects a diversity of perspectives and voices. However, this progress is challenged by the need for legal reforms to ensure media operations align with international standards.

Christine Nguku, Assistant Director of Training and Curriculum Development at the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), emphasized the need for urgent reforms to update or eliminate restrictive media laws. “These laws, policies, and regulations must be amended to align with international standards, ensuring that they do not encroach upon our press freedom,” Nguku insisted.

Nguku also highlighted the necessity of developing transparent regulations to protect journalists’ rights while maintaining accountability within the media sector.

The conference, aimed at bolstering the press ecosystem in Kenya, focused on building alliances between the media, CSOs, and the government. Key topics of discussion included access to information and Artificial Intelligence, as well as the security, wellbeing, and protection of journalists and whistleblowers.