Kenya's Cabinet Secretary Calls for Prioritizing Environmental Crisis Reporting

On World Press Freedom Day, Kenya's Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo emphasized the critical role of journalism in promoting sustainability and holding stakeholders accountable for environmental conservation. Owalo called on the media to prioritize reporting on theenvironmental crisisand conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of accurate and timely information in driving meaningful change.

Why this matters: Effective environmental reporting can raise public awareness and influence policy decisions, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future. As climate change continues to pose significant threats to global ecosystems, the media's role in promoting environmental accountability becomes increasingly crucial.

Speaking at the Annual Media Summit held in Murang'a, Kenya, ahead ofWorld Press Freedom Day, Owalo stressed the media's responsibility in simplifying complex scientific information to keep the public engaged and motivated to push for comprehensive environmental policies. "Journalists have a responsibility to hold all stakeholders accountable whether it is government, industries or citizens,"Owalo stated.

The Kenyan government recognizes the importance of media freedom and encourages collaboration with journalists in environmental preservation efforts. "The government encourages the media to work with us in environmental preservation and efforts," Owalo said, emphasizing the need for a collective approach in tackling the negative effects of climate change.

David Omwoyo, CEO of the Media Council of Kenya, called for a comprehensive policy review framework to ensure a conducive working environment for the media sector. "Good journalism is expensive and we need to address thechallenges that hamper media sustainabilityin Kenya,"Omwoyo stated, highlighting the importance of supporting journalists in their crucial role.

The summit, organized by the Media Council of Kenya in partnership with UNESCO, provided a platform for stakeholders to reflect on the role of journalism in protecting the planet. The theme for this year'sWorld Press Freedom Day, "A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis," underscores the media's responsibility in raising awareness and shaping public discourse on environmental issues.

Kenya boasts a vibrant media landscape, with at least 300 TV stations, 200 radio stations, and 9,000 accredited journalists. The National Assembly is looking into creating an environment conducive to media sustainability, fostering a diverse and robust media ecosystem. The 12th Annual Journalism Excellence Award (AJEA) will recognize, acknowledge, inspire, andpromote media excellencein Kenya.

As Kenya faces the challenges of climate change, the media's role in promoting environmental sustainability and holding stakeholders accountable has never been more crucial. Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo's call for prioritizing environmental crisis reporting serves as a reminder of the power of journalism in driving positive change and shaping a sustainable future for the nation.

Key Takeaways

• Kenya's Cabinet Secretary emphasizes journalism's role in promoting environmental sustainability.
• Effective environmental reporting can raise public awareness and influence policy decisions.
• Media freedom is crucial for promoting environmental accountability and sustainability.
• Kenya's government encourages collaboration with journalists in environmental preservation efforts.
• Media sustainability is essential for promoting environmental reporting and shaping public discourse.