Kenya Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom and Journalist Safety

KISUMU – In observance of International Day to end impunity for crimes against journalists, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary, has reiterated the Kenyan government’s dedication to protecting media freedom and the safety of journalists.

According to Kenya News Agency, Communication, and Technology, Prof. Kisiang’ani, whose speech was delivered on his behalf by Information Secretary Judy Munyinyi in Kisumu County, laid out the government’s strategy for creating a safer environment for media practitioners. This includes the introduction of safety funds, trauma counseling, and safety training, as well as fostering dialogue between media and security institutions. The Principal Secretary emphasized the importance of strengthening legal protections and modernizing laws to reflect the digital era’s challenges.

The speech highlighted the media’s indispensable role in supporting democracy and accountability, with Prof. Kisiang’ani characterizing press freedom as a foundational element of a thriving democracy. The occasion, marked with a speech from the Information Secretary alongside Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr. Mathews Owili, MCK CEO David Omwoyo, and other media stakeholders, was a call to action against the rising violations against journalists. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) documented 107 cases of freedom violations since January 2023, with a significant number of physical assaults on journalists.

The government’s announcement follows a grim report detailing unchecked aggressions towards media personnel, including detentions, attacks, and censorship by various entities including politicians, police, and even the public. The Deputy Governor, Dr. Owili, expressed his concerns over the climate of impunity surrounding these offenses.

In response to these challenges, Prof. Kisiang’ani proposed a unified approach, enlisting the collaboration of media owners, the MCK, civil organizations, government agencies, and the public to protect and advance press freedom. The Principal Secretary also encouraged journalists to remain vigilant and assured them of the government’s support.

Additionally, the MCK CEO David Omwoyo emphasized the urgency of holding perpetrators accountable to maintain the nation’s standing on media freedom. Agess Kalekye, the Chairperson of the Media Owners Association, called for a joint effort to foster a supportive environment for journalists, highlighting the necessity for adequate resources and training to adapt to the digital landscape.

This year’s commemoration echoes UNESCO’s objective in designating November 2 to highlight the risks journalists face and the critical need to end impunity for crimes against them.