Female journalists in Kirinyaga County marked this year’s World Press Freedom Day in a unique and impactful way by combining celebration with environmental conservation and community service.
The group, known as Kirinyaga Media Queens, chose to plant fruit trees as a symbol of growth, resilience, and sustainability within both the environment and the media industry.
The event took place at Karima Comprehensive School in Ndia Constituency on Sunday, May 3, 2026, bringing together journalists, teachers, parents, students, and local leaders.
In total, more than 250 fruit tree seedlings were planted across the school compound, with each tree representing the importance of nurturing truth and fostering a strong, independent media.
Participants described the initiative as both symbolic and practical. Beyond commemorating World Press Freedom Day, the activity aimed to leave a lasting positive impact on the community by contributing to environmental conservation and supporting the school’s long-term needs.
The Media Queens, led by their chairperson Ms. Bancy Lole, used the occasion to draw attention to the challenges faced by female journalists in their daily work. Lole highlighted issues such as workplace harassment, insecurity in the field, and mental health pressures, noting that many women in the profession continue to operate under difficult and sometimes unsafe conditions.
She called on the government to take deliberate steps to support journalists by establishing a dedicated department to address their welfare and safety concerns. According to Lole, while press freedom is widely celebrated, there is an urgent need to ensure that journalists are protected and supported as they carry out their duties.
“As journalists, we tell the stories of others, but often our own struggles go unheard. There is a need for structures that protect and support us, especially women who face unique challenges in the field,” she said.
Lole further urged authorities to enhance security for reporters, particularly those working in remote or high-risk areas. She emphasised that a truly free press can only thrive in an environment where journalists feel safe, valued, and empowered to report without fear.
The initiative was warmly welcomed by the host institution. Karima Comprehensive School Principal Peter Maina expressed appreciation for the gesture, noting that the fruit trees would provide both environmental and economic benefits in the coming years.
“These trees are an investment in the future. As they mature, they will produce fruits that can be sold to support the school in areas such as purchasing books and other learning materials,” said Maina.
His sentiments were echoed by ACK Church Priest Pauline Kamotho, who described the exercise as a meaningful effort to restore and protect the environment. She encouraged students, parents, and the wider community to take responsibility for nurturing the seedlings to maturity.
“This activity goes beyond tree planting. It instills values of environmental stewardship in our children and reminds us all of our duty to care for nature,” she said.
Parents who attended the event also praised the Media Queens for extending their influence beyond journalism into community development. One parent, David Kambo, said the initiative demonstrated how professionals can make a difference outside their primary roles.
“This is something we truly appreciate as parents. These trees will benefit our children and teach them responsibility. It is a lesson that goes beyond the classroom,” he said.
Kambo added that such initiatives help strengthen relationships between the media and the community, fostering collaboration in addressing social and environmental challenges.
By David Wandeto
