Misinformation in Kenya especially through social media has become a daily chore and this was mostly witnessed during the Covid-19 pandemic and August General election.
According to Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA), unverified information on social media mislead Kenyans.
“Disinformation has injured communities starting from Covid-19 pandemic until now, you will find out that some cannot go for vaccination because of the kind of information they hear. Some voters could not vote for their correct candidate because of wrong information about him by another candidate. There is a lot of misinformation in Kenya not only in politics but also in agriculture especially on GMO and in communities.” Said Janak
Kenya Correspondents Association chairman Mr. Oloo Janak said that there is a need to collaborate with the community to end unverified news in the country. He also called upon the journalists to air verified news as they can easily be used to spread propaganda that may lead them into hot soup.
“Campaign to end misinformation in Kenya is not for journalists alone, but also for whole community. Journalists should always be careful on what they air. I appeal to journalists from different media houses to follow media laws of Media Council act 2013.” added Janak
Janak asked media houses to have a long-term arrangement when it comes to firing journalists to prepare them psychologically. He urged media houses to always adhere to the laws that protect journalists as it is indicated in the international labour organization.
“Sacking of journalist without following proper procedure might cause harm to them like psychological torture to those who have families to feed. Some are even sacked through text messages, “Said Janak
He has also urged Kenyans to be careful this festive season as he advised drivers to be extra careful and follow traffic rules.
“I appeal to public service drivers to be careful of different people. Some are family bread winners and Kenyans also exercise caution when travelling in any form of public transport and avoid drinking recklessly.” He said.
Finance officer and coordinator Rose Mwangi advised parents to spend considerably, putting in mind that schools will be open soon.
“Parents should make wise decisions when spending money this festive season as soon as school opens. Should make wise financial decisions and I encourage women to have a strong personality when making financial decisions,”Said Mrs Mwangi.
