Media Council of Kenya recalls all accreditation cards in crackdown on fake journalists

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has resolved to recall all media accreditation cards to contain fraudsters posing as journalists.

In a statement issued on Friday, the media council said it would issue new press cards with additional features that would make it easy to authenticate the card using any smartphone.

“New Press Cards to have additional features including a barcode and QR code that can be scanned using any smartphone,” said MCK.

Accreditation helps journalists to access information by allowing participation in conferences, workshops, trainings and other gatherings.

It also enhances the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in performing their duties.

According to MCK, the following cadre of people are eligible for accreditation; Journalists working in media enterprises; Freelance journalists; Foreign journalists; Students pursuing media, journalism and communication studies; Public Relations Practitioners; Advertising Companies and Media Trainers.

All journalists seeking accreditation by the MCK, are required to provide a letter from the employer, an original degree or diploma certificate in communication from a recognised institution.