The workshop was represented by community media stations in Transzoia, Busia, Webuye and Bungoma county. The workshop had facilitators from Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), Association of Kenya Community Media Operators (AKCMO) and Department of English, Literature, Journalism and Mass Communication, Faculty of Arts and Social Science, Kibabii University. By the end of the four-day workshop it was evident that more of such capacity building workshop are necessary to help enhance skills of the community radio professionals.
Kibabii University Journalism students also benefited from the workshop, as it gave them an opportunity to develop and refine their journalistic skills. They received practical advice and guidance on writing, reporting, editing, and other essential aspects of journalism. The students also benefited from real-world experiences as journalists shared their real-world experiences and insights, helping our students bridge the gap between theory and practice. This practical knowledge is invaluable as they prepare for careers in journalism. The workshop provided participants with the opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge related to content development, ethical journalism and broadcasting.
The workshop exposed participants to best practices for content development, such as: storytelling techniques, identifying community needs, handling issues on cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, promoting peace and unity. These areas are important as they lead to producing more diverse range of radio programs that caters to the varied interests and needs of their communities. Therefore, creating high-quality, informative, and engaging content that resonates with their target audience leading to increased listenership and community engagement.
In an era of rapid technological advancements, the participants were trained on the latest fact – checking and verification tools and understanding the Changing Media Landscape. The training also covered importance of ethical journalism, media laws and regulation, Press freedom and responsibility, presenting content responsibly, ethical dilemmas in reporting and tips for responsible broadcasting.
In conclusion, capacity building workshops for community radio professionals in content development and ICE activities are essential for enhancing the quality and impact of community radio. They empower professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to better serve their communities, promote local development, and foster community engagement. This allows radio professionals to assess the effectiveness of their programs and make necessary improvements.
