The Annual Philip Ochieng Memorial Lecture, a collaborative effort between the Kenya Editor’s Guild (KEG) and Daystar University, held on May 10, 2024, served as a compelling reflection on the diverse history of Kenyan journalism. It blended memories of the past, new ideas, and a lasting dedication to journalism of integrity.
The gathering, reminiscent of a time when ink-stained fingers and typewriter clatter were synonymous with newsrooms, brought together seniors editors, journalism scholars, and students to reflect on the enduring legacy of Philip Ochieng, fondly referred to as PO by his peers and the timeless values he embodied in journalism. This year’s event was centered on the theme ‘The Craft and Commerce of Contemporary Kenyan Journalism: Trends and Issues.’
In her keynote address, Rachael Akidi, a seasoned journalist and media consultant at Reebo Consult, described Philip Ochieng (PO) as a towering figure in the media industry and a beacon of inspiration to journalists. She stressed his enduring influence on journalists, saying, “PO would probably find this media landscape unrecognizable. The challenges facing the media now are unprecedented,” evoking memories of a simpler yet more profound era of journalism.
Akidi posed thought-provoking questions about the essence of news in today’s digital age. She pondered, “What is news to this new generation? How do they consume it? How do we remain relevant in this digital era?” invoking a sense of longing for the days of in-depth reporting and meaningful engagement with audiences.
She urged the industry to remain relevant and responsive to audience needs, emphasizing the importance of data-driven, accessible news content tailored to modern audiences.
“The future is personalized content. We need to listen to the audience, understand their needs, and respond accordingly,” she urged, channeling a spirit of adaptation and evolution.
She further highlighted the intense competition facing mainstream media in the digital market, stating, “Traditional media is no longer homogenous [uniform], but we’re in competition for the attention and engagement of the same audiences as digital platforms.”
To address this challenge, Akidi urged the media to capitalize on its strengths, including credible journalism, relevant investigative reporting, and holding power accountable.
“Traditional media takes pride in the fundamental principles and ethics of journalism. Our competitors often fall short in upholding these values,” she emphasized. She reiterated the need for increased collaborative efforts between media stakeholders and academia to navigate these challenges, encouraging an open-minded approach and embracing the discomfort that accompanies change.
KEG president Zubeidah Kananu, looked back on how much the media has evolved since Philip Ochieng’s time, noting the need to connect effectively with Generation Z audiences. She questioned how stories can be curated to resonate with younger demographics while meeting their informational needs.
Professor Levi Obonyo, Dean of Daystar University’s School of Communication, stressed the vital collaboration between KEG and the university. He highlighted its significance in training journalists who can navigate the changing media landscape and ensuring that industry developments are reflected in academic programs.
During a panel discussion, Joseph Warungu, who previously held managerial positions at both BBC and NTV, expressed concern about the diminishing reading culture and institutional memory within newsrooms. He emphasized the need to revive curiosity and mentorship to maintain the continuity of quality journalism, contrasting it with the practices upheld by Philip Ochieng in the past.
“We must cultivate curiosity and mentorship to ensure the continuity of our craft,” Warungu emphasized, urging a return to the core principles that once defined journalism.
Prof. Wilson Ugangu, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Media Studies at Multimedia University, reminisced about the structured nature of past practices. “This is no longer the case. The current media environment is chaotic and lacks predictability,” he observed. He urged the industry to think outside the box and remain flexible. Furthermore, he advised the media to localize content.
The Annual Philip Ochieng Memorial Lecture serves as a platform for reflection, innovation, and collaboration, embodying the spirit of journalistic excellence and adaptation in a rapidly changing media environment.
