Nakuru journalists gathered on Friday evening for a dazzling celebration to mark the first anniversary of the Nakuru Journalists Association (NJA). The event, held at the elegant Midland Hotel in Nakuru City, was a vibrant affair filled with laughter, inspiration, networking and recognition of journalistic excellence.
The African glam-themed evening featured a keynote address by Mr Paul Ngugi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Geothermal Development Company (GDC), who delivered a powerful speech of truthful reporting in an era of climate change and misinformation.
“Truthful journalism in the age of climate change and alternative facts is not just important—it’s essential. Geothermal energy, for instance, is a game changer in decarbonizing economies and mitigating climate change,” he said, applauding the media’s efforts in advancing these critical conversations.
Adding to the celebratory tone, Mr Joseph Openda, Chairman of the NJA, highlighted the media’s role as a driver of societal progress. He praised fellow journalists for their work in shaping opinions, influencing policies, and driving meaningful action on critical issues such as climate change, energy, and sustainable development.
“As we celebrate tonight, let us also commit to raising the bar in our storytelling. Our narratives have the power to educate communities, inspire change, and foster action,” he said.
Mr Roncliffe Odit, the President of Scribes +254, Kenya’s umbrella organization for journalists, emphasized the importance of continuous professional development for journalists. He urged media practitioners to consistently upgrade their skills and knowledge to stay competitive in the rapidly changing and dynamic media landscape.
“Equally important, journalists must make a conscious effort to support one another, especially in times of economic hardship. By fostering a sense of solidarity and collaboration, we can navigate these challenging periods more effectively. This mutual support not only helps individuals survive difficult times but also strengthens the media community as a whole.” he added.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition and celebration of outstanding achievements within the Nakuru journalism community, as the event honored individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the field through their dedication, hard work, and impactful storytelling.
Ms Cynthia Gichiri, a journalist with African Uncensored, was named Journalist of the Year for her groundbreaking investigative reporting. Her exposé on the Fake Fertilizer Scandal, aired on NTV, brought to light critical issues in the agricultural sector and demonstrated her dedication to uncovering the truth and holding power to account.
The Resilience Award was presented to Catherine Kariuki, a regional reporter for Kameme TV and Radio. Catherine’s courage and commitment were evident during the Gen Z demonstrations in Nakuru City, where she sustained injuries after being shot at with rubber bullets while covering the protests. Despite this, she returned to work with unwavering determination, earning widespread admiration for her dedication to journalism.
Veteran journalist Mr Raphael Munge was honored with the Veterans Award for his decades-long service to the profession. Mr Munge, who has documented key moments in Kenya’s history, including the clamor for multiparty democracy in the late 1980s, reflected on his career with humility and pride.
He recounted how, during those turbulent years, he sustained injuries while reporting on protests, yet remained steadfast in his commitment to the craft. The audience gave him a standing ovation as lady journalists joined him on the floor for a Zilizo Pendwa tune to celebrate his legacy of courage and mentorship.
The association’s chairman, Mr Joseph Openda, received the Leadership Award for his transformative vision and dedication to the NJA. Under his leadership, the association has grown significantly, fostering unity among members and elevating the standards of journalism in Nakuru County. His ability to inspire and mentor his colleagues was commended as a cornerstone of the association’s success.
The Sports and Entertainment Committee also received special recognition with the Best Commitee Award for its outstanding contributions. From organizing football tournaments and adventurous hikes to hosting mental health and fitness camps, the committee was said to have enriched the association with vibrant and engaging activities. The association’s meticulous planning of the gala dinner was particularly praised, showcasing their dedication to fostering unity and entertainment among members.
The gala dinner was a night of triumph and reflection, celebrating the achievements of the Nakuru Journalists Association while reaffirming its commitment to advancing media excellence and addressing critical societal issues through impactful journalism.
In his closing remarks, the Sports and Entertainment Committee chairman Mr Julius Chepkwony captured the spirit of the evening, saying, “Tonight, we don’t just celebrate the Nakuru Journalists Association—we celebrate the power of journalism to change lives, build communities, and inspire the future.”
As journalists made their way out of Midland Hotel in the early hours of Saturday morning, the sense of camaraderie and optimism was palpable. The Nakuru Journalists Association had not only reached a significant milestone but had also set a gold standard for resilience, unity, and journalistic excellence, celebrating into the dawn with laughter, dances and shared stories.