The media should play a pivotal role in highlighting and championing the rights of marginalized and minority communities, bringing attention to their challenges, and advocating for transformative change.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK), Nakuru Regional Coordinator Joseph Mecha said in an era of social inequalities, the media has emerged as a powerful tool in the fight for justice, equity, and equality. Mecha was speaking during a one-day workshop in Nakuru City to sensitize regional journalists on reporting minority and marginalized communities through investigative pieces, personal stories, and community-driven initiatives.
“It is not merely a matter of delivering news; it is a commitment to uphold the principles of non-discrimination, safeguarding the rights and dignity of those whose stories we tell,” he noted.
He added that it is important for journalists to approach their work with sensitivity, empathy, and an unwavering dedication to fair and accurate representation as they navigate the particulars of the diverse society.
Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara, while opening the workshop, emphasized that the weighty obligation to disseminate information must be accompanied by an equally paramount duty to uphold respect and dignity.
“Moreover, the media plays a critical watchdog role, scrutinizing government interventions to ensure transparency, effectiveness, and accountability on interventions targeting the communities,” he emphasized.
The regional administrator added that by breaking down complex policies and highlighting government actions, the media empowers citizens with the knowledge and understanding needed to actively participate in the democratic process.
The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Nakuru Regional Coordinator Lewis Mwaniki underscored the urgent need for a framework that clearly defines “minority” and “marginalized” to prevent ambiguity.
“Regrettably, there are individuals and communities who exploit the labels of ‘minority’ and ‘marginalized’ for personal gain, without deserving such classification,” Mwaniki expressed with concern.
Endorois Indigenous Women Empowerment Network, Programs officer Roggers Motoloi explained that resources meant for marginalized groups were being misallocated, leading to inefficiencies in addressing issues effectively. He emphasized that the media’s role should encompass rigorous investigative reporting aimed at unveiling instances of impersonation, thereby advancing transparency, and accountability, and fostering informed public discourse.
The move by the media regulator to provide training and guidance to journalists on reporting marginalized and minority communities honed the necessary skills to navigate the complex topic with sensitivity and adhere to industry standards.
“In an era where information dissemination is at the forefront of public discourse, the accuracy, clarity, and ethical standards of journalism are of paramount importance,” stated Milele FM journalist David Omurunga.
