Journalists in Kisumu County today joined colleagues across Kenya in commemorating World Press Freedom Day through activities that underscored the vital role of the media in society.
The Kisumu Journalist Network (KJN) marked the day by organizing a blood donation drive at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga National Hospital. The initiative aimed to save lives while symbolizing solidarity between journalists and the community they serve.
On the other hand, the Lake Region Journalist Network (LRJN), which focuses on issues affecting journalists in the wider Lake Region, celebrated the day by planting tree seedlings at MM SHA School. The exercise was part of supporting the government’s ambitious plan to increase tree cover by 2030.
Speaking during the event, the school’s head teacher, Michael Oriedi, emphasized the importance of the tree planting initiative for both education and the environment.
“This activity will greatly benefit our community and the school. It will improve the learning environment and contribute to environmental conservation,” said Oriedi.
However, Oriedi also raised concerns about the safety of his students following the demolition of the school’s perimeter wall to pave way for the expansion of the road linking Kakamega Road to Juakali Market.
He warned that the situation had exposed learners to potential danger.
“Our students are now at risk because the wall that protected them has been brought down. We appeal to well-wishers and authorities to intervene and ensure their safety,” he added.
The head teacher further urged the media to continue highlighting the precarious security situation in Kisumu County, noting that both teachers and students face threats from criminal elements in certain parts of the city.
“We rely on the media to amplify these concerns so that action can be taken. Without security, education cannot thrive,” Oriedi stressed.
The commemorations in Kisumu reflected the broader theme of World Press Freedom Day, which underscores the vital role of journalists in promoting democracy, accountability, and community welfare.
By engaging in humanitarian and environmental activities, local journalists demonstrated their commitment to not only informing the public but also actively contributing to the well being of society.
As the celebrations concluded, participants reiterated the need for continued collaboration between the media, schools, and the wider community to address pressing challenges such as insecurity and environmental degradation
