AMWIK and Akili Network Forge Partnership

A groundbreaking partnership has been officially solidified between the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) and Akili Network, promising a significant leap forward in media advocacy for women and children across Kenya. The two organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), setting the stage for a collaborative effort to enhance child-sensitive content, amplify women’s voices, and influence positive behavioral change from the grassroots up.

The signing ceremony saw AMWIK Executive Director Ms. Queenter Mbori and Akili Network Co-Founder and CEO Mr. Jeffrey Schon put pen to paper on an agreement that outlines a comprehensive framework for joint initiatives. These initiatives span crucial areas such as training, content development, community engagement, and joint advocacy on issues critical to women and children.

Speaking at the signing, Ms. Queenter Mbori underscored the vital role of early intervention in shaping societal attitudes. “At children level is where you can influence behavioral change, stereotypes on issues affecting women and children,” she stated passionately. “This partnership is vital in enhancing that change. It reflects the new code of conduct adopted by MCK that encompass children’s reporting.” Her words highlight the proactive and forward-thinking nature of this collaboration, recognizing the profound impact of media on young minds and the need for ethical, child-sensitive reporting.

Mr. Jeffrey Schon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the existing need for quality educational content. “There is a gap for good content that is education and promotes critical thinking,” he observed. He further expressed optimism about the synergy between the two organizations. “Partnering with AMWIK, which has a track record on issues affecting women and children, will enable us to create more impact together.” This partnership leverages AMWIK’s expertise in gender and child advocacy with Akili Network’s reach and platform, promising a powerful combination for social good.

The MoU outlines several key areas of collaboration designed to achieve their shared goals:

• Commemoration of Advocacy Events: Jointly marking significant advocacy days and events to raise awareness.
• Training and Capacity Building: Delivering targeted training sessions for journalists, editors, and Akili Network staff to equip them with the skills for child-sensitive and gender-responsive reporting.
• Content Co-Creation: Developing accessible, research-based content specifically tailored for young audiences, ensuring educational and engaging material.
• Joint Resource Mobilization: Collaborating on grant proposals and fundraising strategies to secure resources for impactful initiatives.
• Community Engagement: Executing on-ground activities, including watch parties and dialogues, to connect directly with communities and gather feedback.
• Media and Governance Advocacy: Promoting children’s participation in governance through various media initiatives, empowering their voices in decision-making processes.

In a further demonstration of commitment to empowering women in media, AMWIK will extend professional membership opportunities to all eligible women employed by Akili Network. This means that Akili Network’s women staff will benefit from AMWIK’s professional development programs, mentorship, and invaluable networking platforms, with Akili Network sponsoring their annual membership subscriptions.