Kenya Editors Guild has renewed its push for stronger protection of journalists, warning that attacks on reporters, delayed payments, and shrinking revenue streams are putting the future of the media at risk.
The appeal was made during the 8th Annual Editors Convention held in Kilifi, where Information Communication and Technology Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo joined editors, reporters, and media sector partners for high-level discussions on the state of press freedom.
KEG President Zubeida Kananu told the gathering that many journalists continue to work under growing fear, pointing to harassment, physical injury, and threats that have become common during major public events.
She reminded the forum of the Gen Z demonstrations, where more than 20 journalists were assaulted, equipment destroyed, and female reporters threatened.
Kananu revisited the story of Catherine Wanjeri, the journalist who was shot three times at close range and is still waiting for justice.
“Bwana CS, we request a renewed commitment for journalist protection, fast and transparent prosecution of perpetrators, a joint rapid response mechanism between Interior, Kenya Media Sector Working Group, Media Council of Kenya, Independent Policing and Oversight Authority, and Office of the Director of Public Prosecution,” she said. She also noted that delayed government advertising payments and the dominance of global tech platforms have weakened local newsrooms.
To address these challenges, KEG proposed a wide set of measures that include opening up government advertising, creating a sustainability and innovation fund for media, and requiring international digital platforms to share revenue generated in Kenya.
The Guild also suggested that funds recovered from corruption cases be directed to support investigative reporting, and called for tax relief on importing broadcast equipment and training resources.
The Guild President further urged reforms at the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, saying it needs modern equipment, predictable funding, and a guarantee of editorial independence.
She added that Kenya must also streamline laws around media regulation to clear overlaps between the Communications Authority and the Media Council of Kenya.
In his remarks, CS Kabogo said he recognised the issues raised and acknowledged that many of the proposals were “doable.” He told the forum, “On matters press freedom, we have seen stories of journalists being harassed, journalists being killed, and I want to tell you that is not a government policy. We have to find space to work together, but I also ask you to report fairly.”
He also committed to ensuring faster payment for government advertising and supported the idea of separating public broadcasting from commercial operations.
Kananu noted that the threats facing the media are not only physical but also financial, saying that without stable revenue, newsrooms cannot operate effectively.
She urged the government to work closely with media houses ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that disinformation, online abuse, and political pressure will grow as campaigning intensifies. She called for stronger preparedness, better safety structures, and support for fact-checking teams.
She also appealed to media houses to prioritise staff welfare, mental health, and timely pay, saying the industry has lost colleagues who were under heavy pressure. Kananu highlighted KEG’s ongoing training work, including manuals developed to help journalists report on climate change, biotechnology, and trade, and asked for wider support to sustain such programmes.
Kananu closed her address by reminding the convention that protecting journalists protects the country, saying, “When the media thrives, the nation thrives. When journalists are safe, citizens are safe. When truth is protected, democracy is protected.”
