The principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunication Mrs. Fatuma Hirsi has urged the media to provide hope and confidence to investors and ordinary citizens to promote cohesion and economic growth.

Addressing media practitioners and regulators drawn from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe at the opening of the International Training Program at a Nairobi hotel Yesterday February 12, 2019 Mrs. Hirsi called on the media to exercise responsibility and avoid polarizing communities by fanning division and tribalism.

Mrs. Hirsi noted that the media is a powerful tool with great influence on democracy, leadership, and governance and have a duty to exercise responsible journalism while disseminating information.

The PS emphasized on the role of media in social, political and economic transformation saying it is critical for the media to fight bad governance in the public sector and within the profession. She added that the Media need to set its own professional standards and compliance to avoid government interference.

Mrs. Hirsi called on the media to promote and celebrate the rich and vibrant cultural diversity in the society and encourage harmonious coexistence. The Principal Secretary commended the Kenyan media saying that a survey conducted recently ranked it as one of the top most trusted institutions by the public.

Additionally, the PS urged the media to take a lead in preserving the African cultural heritage and by telling African success stories and great values for the benefit of future generations.

February 13, 2019 Sharon Kiraithe