By Lenah Bosibori
Nairobi, Kenya: The media in Kenya has been urged to be a catalyst for change in reporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking in Nairobi during a media engagement forum on SDGs, Florence Syevuo the executive director of SDGs Kenya called on the media to work together to bridge the gap between Policy makers, civil society, businesses, and individuals.
“As members of the media, you hold a unique responsibility in the development process. Your ability to inform, engage, and inspire is unparalleled,” said Syevuo.
The SDGs, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provide a comprehensive blueprint for addressing global challenges and creating a world where no one is left behind.
“I urge you to consider how your role in the media can be a catalyst for change. Let us work together to bridge the gap between policymakers, civil society, businesses, and individuals, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for achieving the SDGs,” said Syevuo.
She added that they have made commendable progress in pursuing the SDGs, yet significant challenges persist.
“In Kenya, these goals are not just lofty aspirations; they are a guiding framework that shapes our policies, actions, and collaborations, steering us toward a path of inclusive development,” adds Syevuo.
She added that they are committed to ending poverty and hunger, ensuring quality education and healthcare, achieving gender equality, and promoting sustainable economic growth
“Your stories have the power to shape perceptions, drive change, and spark meaningful conversations that transcend borders. By highlighting success stories, shedding light on challenges, and amplifying the voices of those often unheard, you can drive a positive narrative for our nation’s journey towards sustainable development,” reiterates Syevuo.
She called upon journalists to utilize the platforms to bring to light the innovative initiatives, grassroots movements, and policy reforms that are propelling closer to the SDGs
“By providing accurate information, fostering dialogue, and encouraging collaboration, you contribute to the creation of an informed and empowered citizenry that demands accountability from its leaders,” adds Syevuo.
Syevuo noted that Kenya has only 7 years remaining to meet the Agenda 2030.
“We are at the midpoint of implementation, the world has experienced numerous setbacks to the progress made since 2016.
Amid the traversing crises of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate tragedy, Russia-Ukraine war, and rising economic and political insecurity, progress on most SDG targets have begun to reverse,” adds Syevuo.
Senator Beatrice Ogola noted the challenges parliament has faced to attain SDGs as limited Awareness and understanding of SDG frameworks.
“Limited resources for allocation and advocacy, changing political priorities and short-termism, political polarization, illiterate constituents, implementation and monitoring gaps such as insufficient data, weak reporting mechanisms, and limited access to information,” adds Ogola.
