Female journalists urged to embrace ethics, digital tools

Female journalists have been urged to champion ethical reporting, embrace digital platforms, and take advantage of empowerment opportunities to strengthen their role in society and curb misinformation.

This call was made during the eighth anniversary and Annual General Meeting of Media Queens 037, a Kakamega-based network that brings together women in the media industry to promote solidarity, empowerment, and gender representation.

Kakamega County Executive Committee Member for Social Services, Youth, Sports, Gender, and Culture, Jackline Masicha, challenged the media to uphold integrity and responsible reporting.

“Truthful reporting fosters peace. Some of the content you broadcast such as vices like homosexuality, reaches people who aren’t on social media, so let’s be careful. Let’s also highlight the positive developments in our communities,” Masicha said.

She encouraged the women to utilise county grants to grow their media ventures and become economically independent.

Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) Secretary General Seth Panyako called on the government to ensure the safety of women journalists and uphold media freedom.

“You’ve stood firm in exposing injustice and poor governance. The State must protect your rights and working environment,” Panyako noted.

Vihiga County Chief of Staff Leonard Kasaya said initiatives like Media Queens 037 were crucial in addressing challenges facing women in media and called for legislation to support long-term projects led by female journalists.

Kakamega nominated member of county assembly (MCA) Ruth Ombayo emphasised the need for robust anti-harassment policies, while fellow nominated MCA Victoria Zillah, also personal assistant to Lurambi MP Titus Khamala, urged women journalists to adopt podcasts, websites, and digital tools to generate income.

“Consider starting your own podcast or website. With digital tools, you can create independent income streams while telling your own stories,” Zillah said.

She also called on the government and private sector to offer more structured support to women in the media.

“It’s time we institutionalize support for female journalists through policy, funding, and access to digital training,” she added.

Media Queens 037 Chair Milicent Kubai said the group plans to buy coffee dryers to support farmers in Likuyani, as part of its wider community empowerment mission.