By KPC Reporter
The newly appointed Board of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) held its inaugural meeting at the Council’s Secretariat in Nairobi on Tuesday.
This marked the beginning of its oversight role in a period defined by rapid technological change and complex challenges for the media industry.
The meeting, which focused on evaluating the Council’s current status, reviewing departmental workplans, and deliberating on the draft Performance Contract for the 2025/2026 financial year, set the tone for what the leadership described as a results-driven tenure.
Speaking after the session, the newly appointed Board Chairperson, Maina Muiruri, affirmed the team’s dedication to strengthening the Council’s mandate and supporting media stakeholders across the country.
“The appointment is a mark of confidence in the new team. We are grateful to the Cabinet Secretary for the trust placed in us and pledge to steer the media industry to greater heights amidst emerging challenges and a rapidly evolving media landscape,” Muiruri said.
He emphasized the need for strategic interventions to enhance professionalism and ethical standards across the media sector, citing concerns over misinformation, economic sustainability, and press freedom as areas requiring urgent and thoughtful engagement.
The other Board members present were Susan Karagu, Timothy Wanyonyi, and Temesi Mukani, while Tabitha Mutemi joined the deliberations virtually.
The new Board’s appointment comes at a time when the local media industry is facing headwinds from shrinking advertising revenues, digital disruption, political interference, and misinformation, factors that have forced many traditional outlets to restructure or shut down.
More vacancies on the Board will be filled soon.
As per its statutory mandate under the Media Council Act (2013), the MCK is tasked with regulating media practice, accrediting journalists, handling complaints, and protecting press freedom while upholding accountability within the sector.
Stakeholders will be closely watching the Board’s next steps, particularly in how it engages with journalists, media owners, government agencies, and civil society to ensure a balanced and robust media environment.
The Council’s 2025/2026 Performance Contract is expected to guide resource allocation, program implementation, and evaluation mechanisms aimed at safeguarding the credibility and resilience of Kenya’s media ecosystem.
