No products in the cart.
The 2025 Annual Media Summit, led by CS William Kabogo, focused on press freedom, the launch of the Revised Media Code of Conduct, and the challenges of journalism in the digital era.
PRESS FREEDOM AND THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE
The Media Council of Kenya hosted the annual media summit in Nairobi on 15th may 2025, where press freedom and the impact of the rapidly evolving digital landscape were key topics. Journalists, media executives, policymakers, and digital innovators gathered to explore the future of journalism amid technological change.
Speakers highlighted the essential role of a free press in protecting democracy amid growing misinformation and digital surveillance. Panels however, examined the impact of AI, social media algorithms, and digital monetization on journalism and public dialogue.
“The digital revolution is both an opportunity and a challenge,” said keynote speaker Jane Mwangi, Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Nation. “While technology enables faster and broader dissemination of news, it also raises questions about ethics, regulation, and the sustainability of journalism.”
Participants called for stronger legal protections for journalists, more investment in media literacy, and innovative business models to ensure the survival of independent media in the digital age.
On the other hand, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, Hon. William Kabogo, officially launched the revised Code of Conduct for media practice, which the government gazetted on May 14, 2025. The updated Code by MCK addresses ethical issues in AI, user-generated content, influencer marketing, betting, and the protection of children and vulnerable groups. It was revised in response to a High Court ruling that nullified the previous Broadcasting Code and directed the Council to create age-appropriate media standards.
In addition, the MCK illustrated the state of media survey report 2024, stating the shift of media consumption trends with television (26%), social media (24%), and radio (23%) leading in weekly audience reach. Despite the growing digital audience, trust in traditional media remains strong.
In conclusion, Kenya has been shortlisted to host the 2026 Africa Media Convention, a major event that will bring together media professionals from across the continent to discuss the development of Africa's media landscape.
Authored by
Yassin Ali.