Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Stephen Isaboke, has urged information officers to adapt swiftly to the evolving media landscape to enhance information dissemination in the digital era.
Speaking during a Kenya News Agency (KNA) Departmental Meeting on Monday, Isaboke observed that the majority of Kenyans now turn to digital platforms and social media for breaking news, rather than waiting for traditional mainstream media outlets.
“We are in the digital age. A lot is happening online, and people are not waiting for KNA to break news; they will have seen it already on social media handles,” said the PS.
He noted that while mainstream media has lost its monopoly on breaking news, journalists still have a critical role to play.
“You no longer have the monopoly of breaking news in the digital environment. Journalists are now left with the task of enriching stories with more accurate details and witness accounts,” he added.
Isaboke challenged information officers to move away from traditional ways of filing stories and invest in continuous skills development.
“We need to spend time retooling and capacity building to ensure we remain relevant,” he said.
The Principal Secretary also emphasized personal accountability and leadership at all levels.
“Everyone is a leader in their own capacity, including drivers or messengers. If one fails to do their work, we all get into trouble. There is a need for accountability and transparency in how we conduct ourselves,” he stressed.
With the electioneering period approaching, Isaboke called for stronger collaboration among officers to ensure effective, objective, and timely dissemination of information.
“Let’s support each other and continue with the good work. We are heading into an election period, and information is going to be crucial. We have to focus on delivering government messages well and make it shine,” he urged.
By Muturi Mwangi
