Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA) in collaboration with UNESCO is implementing a 12-months project on the freedom of the media.
This is aimed at enhancing free access to information and the sovereignty of journalists in their line of duty.
“We have this project that is aimed at ensuring the security and freedom of journalists. KCA aims at training 200 journalists on their safety and freedom across ten regions.”
The association’s chairman, William Oloo Janak said yesterday during a two-days training of journalists from Western region at Tourist hotel in Bungoma.
Mr. Janak said that there is need to improve the relationship between county governments and the media to enhance devolution in Kenya.
He pointed out that the county government of Bungoma is not availing information to journalists.
He added that politicians are dividing journalists for self-interest as well as threatening journalists who expose rot in governance.
“The security status of journalists in counties is worrying. About 40-50 journalists are in danger. More than 30 journalists have been intimidated and attacked. Moreover, journalists are going through psychological disorders especially during this Covid-19 season,” he added.
He further asked journalists to raise alarm on harassment cases in their line of duty instead of solving such issues locally.
KCA national treasurer Benard Kwalia encouraged the journalists to embrace unity in each region as a way of strengthening security as they cover critical issues in society.
“The tool that will see each journalist secure is unity. It’s the only way we can follow up on intimidation cases. KCA is aimed at uniting journalists and ensure freedom of the press is observed.”
The association’s western branch chairman Bernard Lusenaka used the opportunity to mobilize participants in airing out their issues to the county communication office in attendance.
Meanwhile, the Election Observation group has advised the government to set aside funds that will improve the functionality of IEBC, as a way of ensuring credible elections.
Marcus Ageng’a, Program Manager at ELOG, urged journalists to be bold and transparent when reporting political news.
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