AMWIK and MCK Strengthen Partnership to Support Women Journalists Ahead of 2027
The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) have reaffirmed their joint commitment to advancing gender equality, enhancing journalist safety, and building capacity across the media landscape following a review of their ongoing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The strategic review highlighted key achievements under the three-year agreement while outlining shared priorities for media policy reviews, digital safety, and coordinated preparations ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
Highlighting the success of the collaboration, AMWIK Executive Director, Queenter Mbori noted that the MoU has served as an active, high-impact framework for empowering women journalists across the country. Since the signing of the pact last year, both organizations have worked closely to implement grassroots outreach in six counties with the support of MCK regional coordinators. Key achievements also include the successful co-hosting of the inaugural Annual Women in Media Conference and Awards, as well as the publication of a landmark report examining the unique experiences and challenges facing women in the industry. Furthermore, MCK’s institutional support facilitated AMWIK’s relocation to a new office space, establishing a dedicated resource hub for its activities.
With the 2027 General Elections approaching, both organizations emphasized the importance of close coordination to avoid the duplication of efforts and to ensure equal gender representation in election coverage and training initiatives. MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo stressed the need for a synchronized sector-wide approach, noting that all stakeholders must operate within a unified framework. To strengthen election readiness, the Council announced plans to train up to 3,000 journalists over the next six months, with the first major election-related capacity-building sessions expected to begin in November.
Looking to the future, AMWIK proposed expanding joint initiatives into several critical areas, particularly digital safety and security training. Drawing on its experience in equipping media professionals to navigate online platforms and resist digital harassment, AMWIK aims to deepen resilience among journalists in Kenya and the wider region. AMWIK is also seeking partnership for its planned 2027 conference, a follow-up assessment report on past recommendations, structured mentorship programs, and strategic engagements with media owners to strengthen pathways into leadership for women journalists.
Addressing financial challenges, Mbori noted that funding cuts continue to affect association programs and called for joint exploration of long-term sustainability measures, including local fundraising, corporate partnerships, and reserve funds. Regarding institutional requests, Omwoyo affirmed that MCK will consider support on a case-by-case basis within its statutory mandate, budgets, and work plans, placing strong emphasis on co-planned joint activities. Through this strengthened alliance, both organizations remain dedicated to safeguarding journalists, elevating female leadership, and fostering an inclusive media ecosystem.
