A group of Kabarak University mass communication students joined media professionals, journalists, and advocates at Sarova Woodlands to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The event, held under the theme "Safety of Journalists During Crisis Emergencies," spotlighted the pressing issues journalists face in conflict zones and crises. The students were accompanied by Mr. Benjamin Mbatia, a lecturer in the department, through a collaboration made possible by an active Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Kabarak University and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).
Key speakers included Mr. David Omwoyo, CEO of the MCK, who reaffirmed the council's commitment to creating a safer environment for journalists. He emphasized that combating impunity is essential for preserving press freedom, as safeguarding journalists enables democracy to thrive through unrestricted public access to information. Mr. Eric Odour, Secretary-General of the Kenya Union of Journalists, highlighted the physical and psychological risks journalists encounter during crises, underscoring the need for safety measures to protect the integrity and quality of news.
The event concluded with remarks from Ms. Zubeda Kananu, President of the Kenya Editors Guild, who shared real-life accounts of journalists endangered while covering crises. She stressed the importance of safety training, mental health support, and legal protections, encouraging students to prioritize safety in their careers. The attending students appreciated the insights shared, gaining a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and risks in journalism.
The event underscored journalists' sacrifices to keep the public informed and emphasized the collective duty to ensure their safety and well-being.