The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has emphasized the need for journalists to gain specialized knowledge in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector to improve the accuracy and depth of their reporting.
Speaking during the Validation of the MSME Curriculum for Journalists webinar, MCK Director for Media Training and Development, Victor Bwire, highlighted the Council’s commitment to equipping journalists with the necessary skills to cover the sector effectively.
“By providing journalists with knowledge, specialization, and networking opportunities through the MSME Economy Curriculum, we aim to bridge gaps and enhance reporting in this critical sector,” Bwire stated.
He underscored the role of journalists in shaping public discourse on MSMEs by covering industry experiences, policy challenges, success stories, and opportunities. He also stressed their responsibility in fostering accountability by shedding light on sectoral dynamics.
Additionally, Bwire noted that many media houses themselves operate as MSMEs, playing a dual role as both contributors to and subjects of the small enterprise ecosystem.
“When discussing media viability, organizations must recognize that they are also small enterprises contributing to employment and economic growth,” he added.
The MSME Curriculum has already been integrated into several colleges, a step that Moi University Lecturer Joseph Musakali believes will significantly benefit journalists and media practitioners.
“This curriculum will enhance journalists’ ability to report not just accurately but also analytically, producing more value-driven content,” Musakali explained.
He further emphasized the importance of ethical journalism in MSME reporting, encouraging journalists to develop industry-specific expertise and stay updated on global trends.
“A well-informed media will help foster meaningful public discourse, drive business growth, and influence policy development in the MSME sector,” he concluded.
