Journalists in Migori County have officially launched the Migori Media Community-Based Organisation (CBO) office, marking a milestone aimed at strengthening community communication, promoting development reporting and enhancing collaboration with both county and national governments.
Speaking during the launch held at the Migori Red Cross head office, Migori County Chief Officer for Special Programmes, Starlet Odour, said the establishment of the office would provide journalists with a central point for professional engagement while improving access for clients, including the county government.
“This office will position local media practitioners strategically and make it easier for clients to reach them. As the county government, we are committed to partnering with you to enhance the visibility of development projects across Migori,” said Odour.
Migori County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water and Energy, Sylus Owuor, said the media plays a critical role in informing residents about government programmes and urged journalists to continue highlighting development initiatives across the county.
Migori County Principal Public Communication Officer, Emmanuel Odeny, called for reforms in government advertising policies to ensure county governments allocate advertising opportunities to local media outlets.
He urged the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) to review the Government Advertising Agency policy to ensure county governments are required to place advertisements in registered community media platforms.
“Since devolution began in 2013, counties have their own communication needs. The law should be reviewed to ensure government advertisements also reach registered community media houses to benefit them economically,” said Odeny.
Kuria Sub-county Information Officer Makokha Khaoya, who represented the Migori County Information Office, urged the new CBO to focus on bridging information gaps between mainstream media coverage and grassroots communities.
He called on the officials of the CBO to steer the organisation effectively in promoting civic participation, amplifying marginalised voices and improving access to accurate information on socio-economic issues.
Migori Journalists CBO Secretary-General Polycap Ochieng said the newly launched office will serve as the organisation’s headquarters and strengthen collaboration among journalists in promoting community development.
“This office will be our central command as we unite journalists to champion effective communication and support community development in Migori County,” said Ochieng.
Migori County Election Manager Ben Misati, who was also present, urged the media fraternity to continue highlighting issues affecting society, particularly those that promote civic awareness.
He also encouraged the media to educate the public on voter registration ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
“Our IEBC main offices and Huduma Centres across the county are still registering voters. I appeal to the media to continue informing the public on this important civic duty,” said Misati.
By Faith Opar
