Lubao FM News 
By Wycliffe Andabwa
The Association of Media Women in Kenya, led by Executive Director Queen Tambori, has partnered with the Usawa Programme to combat fraud, waste, and abuse in Kenya. The programme, led by Transparency International, aims to work closely with citizens and media practitioners to expose corruption in the health sector.
The health sector is particularly vulnerable to corruption, with research indicating that it is the most corrupt sector in Kenya and many other countries. The programme will focus on empowering journalists and editors in five counties – Isiolo, Kakamega, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Kilifi – to cover fraud and abuse in the sector.
The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) will play a critical role in providing media support for the project. As a non-profit national membership association for women in the media, AMWIC has a nationwide reach and provides capacity-building opportunities for its members.
The programme will offer training for ten journalists and ten editors in each of the five counties, as well as mentorship and grants. AMWIK will also ensure that journalists’ safety and security are prioritized, partnering with organizations such as the EACC to provide support and protection.
Corruption is a significant challenge in Kenya, with many cases going unreported or unresolved. AMWIC recognizes that journalists are often at risk due to their investigative work and whistleblowing. To address this, the programme will provide training on safety and security for journalists.
In addition to training, AMWIK will also provide access to information, which is often a challenge for journalists. The organization has partnered with other organizations to achieve these objectives. The programme will also focus on content strategies for media organizations to promote public interest stories.
Corruption in county facilities is a significant issue across the country. The programme aims to empower journalists and editors to report on these issues, promoting transparency and accountability. By working with media managers and journalists, AMWIC hopes to spread the message about the importance of reporting on corruption.
AMWIK recognizes that other organizations, such as the Media Council of Kenya and the Kenya Union of Journalists, have mechanisms in place to ensure journalist safety. However, the programme will also provide additional training and support to ensure that journalists can take care of their own safety.
The programme’s inception meetings with media managers are critical in gaining buy-in from media organizations and explaining the value of reporting on corruption. By working collaboratively with stakeholders, AMWIC hopes to promote a culture of transparency and accountability.
The Usawa Programme aims to empower journalists and editors to report on corruption and promote public interest stories. By providing training, mentorship, and support, AMWIC hopes to make a significant impact in combating fraud, waste, and abuse in Kenya’s health sector.
