The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has trained journalists from Kajiado and Machakos counties on the ethical integration of artificial intelligence in journalism.
The one-day capacity-building forum took place in Kajiado. MCK said the session aimed to guide responsible AI use in newsrooms.
Ethical AI journalism training stresses accuracy and independence
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire told journalists to follow existing media laws. He said professional standards still apply as technology evolves.
He urged reporters to protect core principles. These include truth and accuracy, independence, fairness, and impartiality.
MCK officials said AI now shapes news production and public communication. For that reason, they said journalists need clear guidance on proper use.
MCK warns on disclosure and transparency when using AI
MCK Manager for Media Monitoring and Research Dinnah Ondari said AI can boost efficiency in newsrooms. However, she said journalists must use it professionally.
She warned that non-disclosure weakens transparency. It can also damage credibility and public trust.
Ondari said publishing AI-generated content without disclosure breaks the MCK Code of Conduct. She pointed to Section 27 on emerging technologies.
In addition, she urged journalists to verify facts before publication. She also called for restraint on sensationalism and bias.
Digital safety session highlights online abuse targeting women
MCK Manager for Accreditation and Compliance Rebecca Mutiso addressed technology-facilitated gender-based violence. She said online harassment increasingly targets female journalists.
Mutiso said social media remains vital for reporting and sourcing stories. Therefore, MCK trained journalists to spot online abuse and intimidation.
The training also covered practical protection steps. These included stronger digital security and reporting mechanisms for such incidents.
Journalists briefed on revised media code for 2025
Trainers also walked participants through the revised Code of Conduct for the Media Practice, 2025.
Kajiado County Media Association chairperson Peterson Githaiga welcomed the forum. He said the training will help journalists adopt AI in an ethical way.
He also asked MCK to hold more sessions. He said journalists need regular updates as technology changes quickly.
