Media ethics, the growing influence of artificial intelligence, and the handling of public complaints were among the key issues discussed at a joint engagement between the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Board and the Media Complaints Commission.
The meeting brought together the newly constituted MCK Board and the Complaints Commission, established under the Media Council Act, providing a platform to align priorities and strengthen collaboration between the two bodies.
MCK Board Chairperson Maina Muiruri noted that the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence has significantly affected story writing, thereby disrupting traditional media practices.
He emphasised the need for targeted training to keep pace with emerging technologies.
“AI has arrived and overtaken many of the old ways of doing things. It is time we invest in AI-focused training to remain relevant and effective,” he said.
The Chair also announced that the Council has developed an ICT Strategic Plan in response to these changes – an initiative that had not previously existed to guide the integration of technology into its operations.
He urged the Council to conduct internal sensitisation exercises to ensure staff are fully aware of the new ICT Strategic Plan and other policies under review by the Board.
MCK CEO David Omwoyo stressed the urgency of upskilling journalists and media institutions to keep abreast of global trends and technological advancements.
Mr Omwoyo reiterated how artificial intelligence is transforming news production and broadcasting, with tools now capable of generating news content and producing radio programmes.
He highlighted the importance of AI training to build a pool of experts who can effectively train others, thereby enhancing media sustainability, while also exploring suitable regulatory approaches to guide the ethical use of AI in journalism.
“AI is no longer a future concept; it has already been integrated into how we live and work. The challenge before us is how we build capacity and find ways to guide its use within media practice,” he said.
Friedrich-Naumann-Foundation for Freedom Kenya Senior Project Manager Judy Kaberia called for familiarisation with the revised Code of Conduct for Media Practice, highlighting its implications for press freedom.
She noted that the document is crucial for upholding standards, particularly ahead of the upcoming general elections.
She outlined FNF’s efforts to enhance press freedom and support the media, pledging continued support and deeper collaboration with the media regulator.
She observed that, compared with neighbouring countries, Kenya has historically maintained high standards in election coverage and urged sustained professionalism and accountability to protect these achievements.
Complaints Commission Vice Chairperson Polly Gathoni updated the meeting on the Commission’s current caseload, noting that five cases have been scheduled for mediation.
She described the training session as timely, pointing out that the new code will play a key role in the adjudication and mediation of cases. She added that effective dispute resolution promotes accountability while maintaining public trust in the media and reducing the need for prolonged adjudication.
The meeting also included departmental briefings, with MCK managers presenting overviews of their respective functions to Commissioners and Board members. These sessions aimed to foster institutional understanding, coordination, and collective oversight of the Council’s mandate.