By Alice Njeri
During the 2025 Annual Summit held at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi, The Ethics And Anti-Corruption Commission(EACC) highlighted that upholding public interest requires leadership that is accountable, institutions that are ethical, and a press that is both free and responsible.
The summit was officially opened by the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, Hon. William Kabogo.
“The media has to be responsible. They should report stories responsibly. The government is completely committed to the rule of law,” said Kabogo.
The CS also stated that the role of the Media is not just to inform but also to uphold the truth, reinforce national values and defend public interest.
He also urged journalists, editors, tech platforms, bloggers and influencers to work together to build a media ecosystem that serves the public good.
The theme for the summit was ”Public Interest in the Age of Technology: Media Accountability and National Values” where discussions were centred on how technology is reshaping journalism,media accountability, and public interest in Kenya.
“AI, social media, and citizen journalism are reshaping the news.Traditional media must adapt with integrity, accountability and the people at heart,” said James Njogu, the secretary general for Kenya National Commission.
“At a time of rapid tech shifts and rising public expectations, the media must remain a pillar of public interest,” noted Queenter Mbori, the Executive Director Association of Media Women in Kenya.
EACC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr Stephen Karuga in his remarks said that while the commission acknowledged the role of the media in promoting integrity and good governance there is need for ethical, factual and objective reporting.