KEMRI And Media Council in Talks to Strengthen Science Communication

By Stella Njung’e

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) will soon Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that is aimed at strengthening science communication in the country and across the region.

The proposed partnership will not only promote the dissemination of scientific findings but will also provide grant opportunities to support journalists and communicators in science communication. This was revealed during the graduation ceremony of the second cohort of the Health Journalism and Public Health Communication program, where 10 participants successfully completed an eight-week intensive training in evidence-based reporting.

In her remarks, the guest speaker, MCK’s Ms. Christine Nguku Speaking on behalf of the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya stated, “An MoU between KEMRI and Dr. James Mutai representing Ag. Director of Research Capacity Building CEO of Willow Health Media, Dr. Mercy Korir and Graduate School’s Dr. Elizabeth Matei MCK is a win for the science communication space. Health journalism is more than just reporting facts. It is about saving lives, shaping behaviour, empowering citizens with knowledge, and enabling communities to make informed choices,” she said.

She disclosed that through the proposed MoU, journalists will benefit from increased training, mentorship, and story grants to pursue health reporting that holds impact. “With this agreement, we hope expand opportunities that translate to more stories, more impact, and stronger health communication across the country,” she added.

Turning to the graduating class, Nguku urged them to remain ethical, compassionate, and innovative as they take up their new responsibilities. “In a world flooded with misinformation, you stand as guardians of truth. Be ethical and independent, keep learning, report with compassion, and use digital platforms creatively to engage audiences. Kenyans need your voice, Africa needs your skills, and the world needs your integrity in sharing information,” she said.

The graduation cohort included Jason Kesa, Eunice Njeri, Kalii Nancy, Judith Adhiambo, Zadock Omenda, Jacinta Maiga, Rael Kerubo, Angela Mukami, Melanie Awino, and Nicole Achieng.

In his remarks during the graduation ceremony, the Ag. Director of Research Capacity Building, represented by Dr. James Mutai, underscored the vital role of science journalists in society. “This course marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to bridge the gap between science and communication. By equipping participants with essential skills in ethical reporting, research interpretation, and public health communication strategies, we empower you to become catalysts of change in your communities,” he said.

On his part the Ag. Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, who was represented by Dr. Mutai, congratulated the graduates, noting that they now carry a great responsibility. “You are now equipped with knowledge and skills that will empower you to make a lasting impact in your communities. As you step into your role as health communicators, I encourage you to assume your responsibility with courage and integrity,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Ms. Kalii Nancy highlighted the impact of the program. “We have learned that effective health communication requires more than simply sharing information, it demands clarity, accuracy, and trust. It also requires empathy, telling stories that respect and reflect the lives of real people. We leave here equipped not only with knowledge, but with the confidence to apply it,” she said.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the CEO of Willow Health Media, Dr. Mercy Korir; Mr. Lolem Lokolile from the Department of Environmental Health, State Department of Public Health and Standards; CEO of the Kenya Editors Guild, Rosalia Omunga; and University of Liverpool’s Prof. Nigel Bruce and Prof. Daniel Pope.

The Health Journalism and Public Health Communication program is a collaborative effort between KEMRI & UoL’s, CLEAN – Air Africa Project, Willow Health Media and heavily supported by faculty members from KEMRI’s Corporate Communications Department. Through this partnership, the initiative seeks to build a new generation of journalists and communicators capable of strengthening science communication and countering health misinformation both locally and regionally.