In accordance to sections 4(k), 13(2), 19(1) and 36 of the Media Act 2007, the Media Council of Kenya undertakes Annual Accreditation of journalists practicing in Kenya.

1. One of its main aims is to improve professionalism among journalists as it ensures that all accredited journalists have the right skills to carry out their duties in a professional manner as accorded to by the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya.
2. It also fulfils the Council’s mandate to compile and maintain a register of journalists, media practitioners, media enterprises and such other related registers.

Benefits of Accreditation

1. Helps in professionalisation in journalism
2. It helps journalists to access information by allowing participation in conferences, workshops, trainings and other gatherings
3. It enhances the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the performance of their duties.

Relevant definitions

"Journalism" means the collecting, writing, editing and presenting of news or news articles in newspapers and magazines, radio and television broadcasts, and in the internet;
"Journalist" means any person who holds a diploma or a degree in mass communication from a recognized institution of higher learning and is recognized as such by the Council, or any other person who was practicing as a journalist immediately before the commencement of this Act, or who holds such other qualifications as are recognized by the Council, and earns a living from the practice of journalism, or any person who habitually engages in the practice of journalism and is recognized as such by the Council;

Media Act 2007

"Foreign journalist" means any journalist who is not a citizen of Kenya;

Journalist means any person who holds a diploma or a degree in mass communication from a recognized institution of higher learning andis recognized as such by the Council, or any other person who was practising as a journalist immediately before the commencement of this Act or who holds such other qualifications as are recognized by the Council, and earns a living from the practice of journalism, or any person who habitually engages in the practice of journalism and is recognised as such by the Council.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCREDITATION

1. A letter from the employer;

2. Freelance journalist should provide: A letter of reference from the organisation you correspond for, portfolio of work done and proof of professional training;

3. A clear digital passport photograph taken on a white background. For those accrediting at the Media Council offices, your photograph will be taken by the Accreditation Officer on site;

4. The respective accreditation fee.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE

Certificates and portfolio should be provided by ALL journalists accrediting for the first time with the Media Council of Kenya.