Journalists from Isiolo and Marsabit counties in Northern Kenya have benefited from a specialized training program aimed at strengthening their capacity to report on mental health issues accurately, responsibly, and in line with journalistic ethics.
The two-day workshop, held in Isiolo town, was organized by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) in partnership with Basic Needs Kenya.
During the training, journalists were urged to use non-stigmatizing language and to ensure that their published or broadcast content actively helps increase public awareness about mental health.
Beyond reporting on the public, the workshop also equipped media professionals with vital techniques to cope with stress, anxiety, and work pressure, protecting their own mental well-being while carrying out their duties.
MCK Assistant Director for Training, Christine Nguku, challenged the participants to reject sensationalism in favor of ethical journalism. She urged the reporters to consistently uphold accuracy, fairness, accountability, and the principle of minimizing harm in their daily work.
Echoing these sentiments, MCK Manager for Press Freedom, Safety, and Advocacy, Rebecca Mutiso, challenged journalists to prioritize their personal safety and mental health while focusing on solution-based reporting.
Meanwhile, Eugene Wanekeya, an official from Basic Needs Kenya, highlighted the critical role of the press and called for deeper collaboration with the media to tackle mental health stigma through accurate, well-researched information.
The training further emphasized the importance of inclusive journalism that represents all sections of society, contributing to constructive public discourse on mental health challenges.
In addition to responsible reporting techniques, the journalists received training on physical and psychological self-care, acknowledging that media workers are often among the first responders at disaster scenes, accidents, and other emotionally distressing events.
Ultimately, the organizers emphasized that ethical, non-stigmatizing journalism can transform societal attitudes toward mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed.
Moving forward, the Media Council of Kenya and Basic Needs Kenya pledged to continue working together to build journalistic capacity, improve the quality of information reaching the public, and strengthen the media’s role in driving positive change across the country.
