05 May 2026   Journalists have been urged to report ethically, champion the voices of the marginalised, and embrace digital skills to remain relevant. That message rang out as media practitioners and students gathered at Baptist High School in Mombasa to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026. The event, organised by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Mombasa Region in partnership with Coast Media FC, brought together journalists, students, teachers, and human rights advocates from Vocal Africa and Muslims for Human Rights. Together, they reflected on press freedom and sought to inspire the next generation of media professionals. The day opened with a careers talk session in which senior journalists shared insights and encouraged students to consider journalism as a career. MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi underscored the Council's commitment to the media industry. “The Media Council of Kenya remains committed to defending press freedom, upholding journalistic standards and supporting media practitioners across the Coast Region. Events like this are part of our broader mandate to nurture talent and ensure that the media continues to thrive as a pillar of democracy,” she said. She urged journalists to report ethically and act as voices for the less heard, noting that they are also human rights defenders. Royal Media Services representative and chairman of Coast Media FC, Francis Mtalaki, called on students to embrace journalism with passion and integrity. “The media industry needs bold, ethical, and well-trained professionals who can tell Kenya's stories accurately. Do not fear the challenges – the country needs your voices,” he said. Journalists and club officials Japheth Makanaki, Kevin Odit, and George Oduor reinforced these points, highlighting the challenging yet rewarding nature of journalism and the critical importance of digital skills in modern media. Students participated actively, posing thoughtful questions on media ethics, opportunities in the digital age, and the practical realities of working within Kenya’s media landscape. School principal Silas Wafula noted that the school runs an active journalism club that helps students build confidence and understand what media work entails as they chart their career paths. Participants also took part in a tree-planting exercise within the Baptist High School compound, with 250 seedlings planted by students, teachers, journalists, MCK officials, and members of Coast Media FC. The celebrations concluded with a football match between Coast Media FC and Changamwe Veterans FC, and a swimming competition that sought to promote unity and healthy living among journalists and students.