By Nyang’au Araka
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has been training journalists on ethical AI use as the country marks World Radio Day 2026 this Friday.
World Radio Day, proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011, celebrates radio as a vital medium for information, dialogue, and public engagement.
Each year, UNESCO identifies a theme that reflects contemporary challenges in broadcasting.
This year’s focus, “Radio and AI”, underscores the growing intersection between technology and media ethics.
Speaking at a capacity-building workshop in Kajiado County, MCK Director for Media Training and Development, Mr. Victor Bwire, emphasised the need to balance innovation with responsibility.
“This year’s theme, ‘Radio and AI’, reminds us that AI is a tool, not a voice. Media professionals must harness technology without compromising the integrity of the airwaves,” he said.
Aligned with UNESCO’s theme, the workshop explored ethical standards in AI-driven content creation, news production, and audience engagement.
Participants examined practical applications of AI, including automated scripts, synthetic voices, and digital content generation.
Ms. Dinnah Ondari, MCK Manager for Media Monitoring and Research, warned that undisclosed AI use and digital manipulation threaten public trust and democracy.
“Transparency is essential. Failing to label synthetic content risks normalising deception and undermining professional journalism,” she said.
MCK Manager for Regulatory Affairs, Mr. Terrence Minishi, guided participants through the Code of Conduct for Media Practice in Kenya, highlighting the importance of ethical oversight whenever AI tools are employed.
The workshop also addressed emerging concerns, such as the potential of technology to reinforce gender inequalities, including Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV).
Mr. Peterson Githaiga, Chairman of the Kajiado Press Club, commended MCK for convening media professionals from across the nation.
“This workshop has equipped participants with practical skills to integrate AI responsibly in journalism. We thank MCK for this initiative,” he said.
Through workshops like these, MCK seeks to ensure that journalists remain at the forefront of technological change while upholding the standards of ethical reporting.
The focus on responsible AI use highlights the critical role radio continues to play in Kenya and globally, even in an era of rapidly advancing technology.
-Additional reporting and photos courtesy of MCK