The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has introduced its Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 alongside guidelines for election coverage ahead of the 2027 General Election. This move aims to enhance journalistic professionalism and public trust during the election period.

On August 14, 2026, MCK officially commissioned the Nakuru Media Hub, expanding its regional footprint to provide training, development, and regulatory support closer to media practitioners outside Nairobi.

Strengthening Media Standards and Integrity

Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau, emphasized that the Strategic Plan will guide efforts to reinforce media independence, elevate professional standards, and restore public confidence in journalism over the next five years.

Kabogo urged media houses to integrate the new election coverage guidelines into their editorial workflows well before campaigns begin to ensure balanced and accurate reporting. He also highlighted emerging challenges such as misinformation and the rapid spread of AI-generated fake content, underscoring the need for responsible technology use to safeguard democratic integrity.

MCK Leadership on Election Reporting

  • MCK Chair Maina Muiruri described the Strategic Plan, election guidelines, and Nakuru Media Hub as critical steps in creating a supportive environment for journalists and protecting media freedoms.
  • CEO David Omwoyo likened the election guidelines to a "seatbelt" helping journalists navigate election pressures, cautioning against prioritizing speed over accuracy in reporting.
  • Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Kananu stressed the importance of verification and public interest journalism amid rising AI use in the media landscape.
  • Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary General Eric Oduor called for greater investment in media professionals to ensure technology complements rather than replaces human reporters.

Nakuru Media Hub: A Regional Media Resource

The Nakuru Media Hub will serve as a centre for training, collaboration, content development, and regulatory services, extending MCK’s reach beyond Kenya’s major media hubs. The launch event gathered key media stakeholders, including representatives from the Digital Broadcasters Association, Association of Media Women in Kenya, and the Media Complaints Commission.

The ceremony concluded with stakeholders signing a commitment to uphold professional and responsible election coverage as the country prepares for the 2027 polls.