World Radio Day: Amplifying Voices, Advocating Change
As the airwaves hum with melodies and news updates, World Radio Day offers a moment to reflect on the profound impact of this timeless medium. In Kenya, where radio serves as a beacon of information and entertainment, the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) celebrates the voices that resonate through the ether, particularly those of two remarkable radio queens, Emily Kenik and Mercy Tyra Murengu.
Emily Kenik, a stalwart of the airwaves at KBC Radio, emphasizes the pivotal role of radio in advocating for human rights. With a seasoned perspective gained from years in the industry, she underscores how radio narratives can expedite justice and set the stage for critical discussions on gender issues. “Radio sets the agenda for discussion,” she asserts, shedding light on its power to spotlight societal injustices such as sexual harassment. Through platforms like AMWIK, voices like Emily’s echo with unwavering determination, championing transparency and accountability in addressing such pervasive challenges.
In the realm of mentorship, Emily extends her wisdom to aspiring journalists, emphasizing the inherent dynamism and excitement of the profession. “Journalism is fun,” she declares, evoking the thrill of navigating through diverse narratives and rubbing shoulders with both the powerful and the marginalized. Yet, she tempers this enthusiasm with a reminder of the transient nature of the field, urging young journalists to savor every moment and embrace discipline as their compass towards enduring success.
Mercy Tyra Murengu, hailing from Milele FM, echoes Emily’s sentiments while spotlighting the evolving landscape of radio in Kenya. With a blend of entertainment and news, stations like Milele FM are carving a niche in the industry, striving towards excellence despite the lingering imperfections. Mercy reminisces about Kenya’s radio journey since independence, where a solitary voice echoed across the nation in 1963, contrasted with the vibrant cacophony of over 200 stations today.
However, amidst this evolution, Mercy confronts the stark reality of sexual harassment within the media industry. With candor, she acknowledges the absence of robust mechanisms to address such misconduct, lamenting how cases often languish in silence or are swept under the rug. Her call to action reverberates with urgency, urging media houses to establish dedicated panels and channels for reporting harassment, while advocating for mentorship rooted in empowerment and advocacy.
In her parting advice, Mercy emphasizes authenticity and self-discovery as the cornerstones of journalistic success. “Be you, do you,” she proclaims, urging aspiring journalists to find their unique voice and harness it to effect positive change. With unwavering resolve, she reminds us that every voice matters, and every story has the power to shape narratives and catalyze transformation.
On this World Radio Day, let us amplify the voices of Emily Kenik, Mercy Tyra Murengu, and countless others who continue to champion the spirit of radio, elevating discourse, advocating for change, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. In their stories, we find inspiration, in their voices, we find power, and in their advocacy, we find hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.
By Iman Masud, AMWIK Intern
