The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) is calling on Parliament to expedite amendments to the Media Council Act 2023 to enhance its regulatory authority and align with evolving media industry dynamics.
Speaking before the Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation, MCK CEO David Omwoyo emphasized the need to address legislative gaps and reinforce the Council’s ability to enforce the journalism code of conduct. He noted that the proposed amendments, already submitted to the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy, aim to clarify the Council’s mandate and expand its oversight role.
These changes will empower the Council to regulate more effectively and ensure compliance with the updated Code of Conduct for Media Practice 2025,
MCK CEO David OmwoyoFollowing a directive from the High Court, MCK recently revised its code of conduct to include new ethical guidelines. These updates cover critical areas such as child protection, artificial intelligence, digital media, and gaming. The revised Code emphasizes responsible journalism, protection of vulnerable populations including children and survivors of sexual violence, and addresses contemporary concerns like hate speech, ethnic incitement, and religious intolerance.
In addition, the new guidelines offer ethical standards on user-generated content, AI technologies, and content related to betting, lotteries, and gaming sectors rapidly growing in digital spaces.
Omwoyo also reiterated the Council’s request for parliamentary support in acquiring an AI-powered media monitoring system. This tool would significantly enhance MCK’s capacity to track and address media violations in real time.
Highlighting MCK’s recent achievements, Omwoyo shared that the Council operates six regional hubs across the country in Malindi, Mombasa, Busia, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Kisii serving over 2,900 accredited journalists. To date, 9,023 journalists have been accredited, 84 violations documented, and numerous rapid-response interventions executed to uphold media freedom.
Committee Chairperson John Kiarie commended the Council’s proactive approach and reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting ethical journalism through robust legislation and shared best practices.
Our duty is to foster a legal environment that encourages responsible journalism
John KiarieHe also encouraged MCK to explore homegrown tech solutions for its proposed monitoring system, noting that Kenyan innovators especially the youth have the talent to deliver locally-developed tools.
He also encouraged MCK to explore homegrown tech solutions for its proposed monitoring system, noting that Kenyan innovators especially the youth have the talent to deliver locally-developed tools.
