Zubeida Kananu /photo courtesy/
Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) president Zubeidah Kananu has emphasized on the critical role of media in demystifying climate finance and promoting accountability for sustainable progress.
While Adressing the press During the Climate Finance Forum on December 18, 2024, Kananu, highlighted the media’s pivotal role in addressing climate change and development finance challenges.
Zubeida notes that climate change reporting is a growing area of specialization that newsrooms must prioritize and allocate more resources toward.
According to the seasoned broadcaster, reporting on climate change requires precision and continuous training for journalists, enabling them to understand the basic science and effectively communicate research findings.
A solid understanding of climate science helps journalists educate their readers, viewers, and listeners, empowering them to make informed decisions and that is why , according to Kananu, the Kenya Writers Guild is pleased to host such forums that aim to deepen the knowledge of development finance among the members of the fourth estate.
She urged journalists to demystify complex climate finance mechanisms, promote accountability and amplify the voices of vulnerable communities.
Kananu also asked for continuous capacity building for reporters, the use of technology like AI and satellite imagery, and ethical reporting standards to counter misinformation. She also noted KEG’s efforts, including launching a Climate Change Reporting Manual and fostering cross-border collaborations.
Earlier this month, KEG launched a Manual on Climate Change Reporting, which will soon be incorporated into the training programs of academic institutions. This is a step toward equipping journalists with the tools they need to inform the public effectively. informed reporting, media can bridge gaps, inspire global action, and champion equitable climate solutions for Africa and beyond.
