The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged media houses to purchase protective gear for journalists covering ongoing anti -government protests in various parts of the country.
In a statement on July 2, 2024, the council backed up its course, stating the importance of this gears in journalists’ line of work.
“A protected journalist is a free and stronger journalist,” affirmed the council.
The council gave details of the application process and documentations needed for successful purchase.
This urge by MCK follows its earlier plea to the Inspector General of police Japheth Koome requesting him to provide security and bar the police from using force against journalists during the protests.
PHOTO/The Kenya Times
MCK Guides on Importation of Protective Gears
According to MCK, some of the protective gears available for journalists include bullet proof vests, helmets and jackets.
To obtain the above protective gears, one has to obtain a certificate of importation from the Firearms Licensing Board.
Also Read: Media Council Makes Plea to IG Koome After Police Attacked 5 Journalists
According to MCK, interested persons should follow these steps to apply for the purchase of the protective gears.
- One should apply to the Firearms Licensing Board.
- Interested applicants should provide information about the intended use and end-users.
- Additionally, they should include details of the items to be imported.
Likewise, the council gave guidelines on the documentations to be provided before importation of the protective gears:
- Media house registration details including KRA Certificate and Certificate of Incorporation/Registration
- For broadcasters, Communication Authority of Kenya Certification is necessary.
- For importation of drones, you will require an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) import permit from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) prior to import.
- Foreign journalists coming to the country with equipment require KRA equipment clearance, application for a special and work permit.
Additionally, the council asked the applicants to make sure that they provide all necessary documents and are correctly filled.
“Ensure all necessary documentation is complete i.e. import permit issued by Firearms Licensing Board, Foreign firearm permit and Removal permit which should be under escort of an authorized police officer and requisite taxes where law allows,” read part of the notice.
Also Read: Foreign Press Details How Police Attacked Journalists Covering Protests in Nairobi
Likewise, they should clearly give reason to the purpose of importation of the gears and assure that they will be available for inspection and vetting by the Firearms Licensing Board at premises and storage.
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PHOTO /The Kenya Times
