Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has praised journalists from the lakeside city for their vital role in amplifying the voices of children, promoting civic awareness, and holding county governments accountable through factual and objective reporting.
Speaking during the DW Alumni Conference held in Kisumu on Thursday, Nyong’o commended the strong collaboration between his administration and the local media fraternity, describing journalists as key partners in advancing health campaigns, communicating development projects, and enhancing climate change awareness.
“Here in Kisumu, journalists have played a critical role in amplifying the voices of our children and holding us accountable, always guided by objectivity and facts,” said Nyong’o.
The governor noted that the success of devolution largely depends on a free, informed, and localized media that understands county governance and exposes both achievements and gaps. He urged DW and other partners to expand capacity-building initiatives for journalists covering devolved sectors such as health, agriculture, early childhood development, the blue economy, and climate change adaptation.
“For devolution to succeed, it must be rejuvenated by the bright light of media scrutiny,” he emphasized. “We need localized journalists who can dig deep into county affairs and tell the real stories, both the challenges and the progress.”
Nyong’o also pledged to support a new generation of young journalists, content creators, and innovators in the Lake Region, citing immense potential in digital storytelling, cultural documentation, and tourism promotion through media.
“My government supports young journalists and creators who are reshaping storytelling in Kisumu. We will continue formulating policies and partnerships that harness the vast opportunities in digital media,” he said.
However, the governor faulted the media for failing to investigate the recent mass fish deaths in Lake Victoria, which he attributed to emissions from the Kibos Sugar Factory. He warned that industries operating without proper environmental controls should not be tolerated, calling for timely and accurate environmental reporting to safeguard natural resources.
“The fish deaths were caused by emissions from Kibos Sugar Factory. Such industries must not be allowed to function without strict environmental standards,” he stated firmly.
The DW Alumni Conference brought together media professionals, policymakers, and scholars under the theme “Media at Crossroads: Fostering Innovation, Building Trust and Resilience.”
