In response to rapid changes in technology, the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has constituted a technical committee to develop media guidelines on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), data and social media.
MCK says the guidelines will seek to ensure appropriate and ethical integration of AI and data for their use in professional journalism in Kenya.
The technical team that is drawn from the media, technology, academia and legal fields is expected to detail the benefits and threats of the new technologies, make recommendations on ethical considerations that will help in improving the quality of journalism, integrate use of data in journalism while at the same time offering professional ways of eliminating harmful content from the media.
The team that will work for three months will develop the following key documents:
- A Journalists’Handbook for Reporting Artificial Intelligence and Data
- Media Guidelines on the Use of Artificial Intelligence and Data
- Ethical Guidelines on the use Social Media and the Internet by Journalists and Media Houses
“Media houses are using AI to maximise on audience segmentation and feedback as the industry finds footing in the fast-changing operating environment,”says Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo.
Huge leaps in technology
In addition, Omwoyo noted that the Council acknowledges the huge leaps in technology including the advent of Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and automation, which have allowed for breakthrough insights and applications that may truly change the world forever.
Media content gathering, production and dissemination have changed and altered dynamics.
“In addition to the utilisation of Artificial Intelligence and data in their work, the media have a duty to provide accurate information and coverage on matters data and AI and their implications in the daily lives of Kenyans, their government and other actors. A clear strategy for media capacity building and ethical guidelines are needed,” adds Omwoyo.
The team comprises Sara Mumbua Nzuki, Michael Michie, Prof John Walubengo, Susan Mute, Ellen Wanjiru, Carole Kimutai, Silas Kiragu, Margaret Kalekye, Michael Oriedo, Dr Gilbert Mugeni, Rosemary Mwangi, Demus Kiprono, Ken Bosire, Alexander Masiga, Oliver Mathenge, Jeremiah Wakaya, George Mwamodo, Francis Mureithi, Alex Mwangi, Joel Karanja, Oscar Otieno, Paul Kaindo, Anhosi K’Obonyo, Jared Kidambi, Lilian Kimeto, Antony Laibuta, Kenneth Kibet, Fridah Naliaka and Eric Munene.
