Kericho Journalists Called to Uphold Objectivity on World Press Freedom Day

KERICHO—Journalists in Kericho County were urged to maintain objectivity and impartiality in their reporting during the World Press Freedom Day celebrations held at ACK Holy Trinity. The event emphasized the crucial role of media practitioners in shaping public discourse and the importance of adhering to ethical standards in journalism.

According to Kenya News Agency, Executive Secretary of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers in Kericho County and chief guest at the event, journalists have a significant responsibility to foster cohesion and integration by covering the real issues affecting communities. “If journalists can play their role well in highlighting real issues affecting the society, we can go far,” Rotich stated. She stressed the importance of unity among journalists, noting that collaborative efforts can lead to more impactful reporting within the county.

Audrey Chemutai, representing the Kericho Press Club, highlighted the need for freedom of expression, particularly in reporting on critical issues like climate change, which she cited as a major factor behind the floods currently affecting the country. Chemutai encouraged local journalists to join the Press Club to strengthen unity and support among media professionals in the region.

The commemoration also marked the global observance of World Press Freedom Day, which is celebrated annually on May 3. This year, the day was dedicated to underscoring the importance of journalism and freedom of expression amidst the ongoing global environmental crisis and its consequences. According to the United Nations, journalists face substantial challenges in gathering and disseminating information on complex issues such as climate migration, pollution, and deforestation among others.

Journalists from all six sub-counties of Kericho gathered to mark the day, reflecting on the challenges and responsibilities of their profession in today’s complex information landscape.