Somaliland Team Explores Media Systems in Kenya
A broad delegation comprising Members of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Somaliland, media associations, and human rights organizations, led by the Parliamentary Committee on Social Affairs and the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA), conducted an official working visit to Nairobi, Kenya.
Purpose of the Visit
The main objective of the visit was to gain insight into how independent and state-owned media operate in Kenya and to understand the role and functioning of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).
Key Engagements and Meetings
- Media Council of Kenya (MCK)
- Officials Met: Hillary Korir, Director of Corporate Services, and senior board members.
- Discussion Points:
- Role of MCK in journalist accreditation and registration.
- Handling complaints and disputes within the media sector.
- Promotion and protection of press freedom.
- Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC)
- Officials Met: Agnes Kalekye, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, and other senior executives.
- Discussion Points:
- Governance and operations of the state-owned broadcaster.
- Public service broadcasting responsibilities.
- Safeguarding editorial independence.
- Royal Media Services (RMS)
- Overview: RMS operates 13 radio stations and three television channels, including Citizen TV.
- Officials Met: Senior management including Jamila Mohamed.
- Discussion Points:
- Media regulations in Kenya.
- Relationship between the media and government institutions.
- Mechanisms for maintaining editorial independence.
Additional Activities
- The delegation visited the Somaliland Liaison Office in Kenya and held several meetings with the mission’s leadership. They expressed their gratitude for the support and hospitality extended to them during their stay.
Significance of the Visit
These engagements form part of the ongoing efforts to accelerate the implementation of Somaliland’s Media Law, currently under review by the House of Representatives. The lessons learned from Kenya’s media governance and regulatory framework will inform future policy and legislative improvements in Somaliland.
