and current CEO of the Media Council of Kenya, has taken the helm as President of the World Association of Press Councils (WAPC).
This significant appointment places him at the forefront of a global association dedicated to championing freedom of expression, independent media, and excellence in journalism. The WAPC is a solidarity body committed to upholding high journalistic standards and ensuring public trust in media worldwide.
As president, Omwoyo will lead the WAPC’s vital mission to advocate for press freedom, elevate media standards, and ensure that national laws do not undermine journalistic integrity. His election occurred on the sidelines of the second Pan-African Media Councils Summit in Arusha, Tanzania, where he had previously served as the WAPC’s second vice president.
New Leadership Team to Drive Global Media Standards
Joining Omwoyo in the WAPC’s new leadership are a diverse group of media professionals. Ali Hancerli from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus will serve as First Vice President, while Kishor Shrestha from Nepal takes on the role of Second Vice President. The Executive Secretary of the Media Council of Tanzania, Ernest Sungura, has been elected Secretary General, and Turkey’s Dr Tamer Atabarut will serve as Treasurer. These newly elected officials will collectively serve a three-year term, working to advance the WAPC’s objectives.
Global Advocacy and East African Leadership
Omwoyo has outlined his immediate priorities, stating that his leadership will focus heavily on global advocacy.
He plans to engage actively with governments, the United Nations, and international bodies such as the African Union and the East Africa Community to vigorously promote press freedom. “This development affirms Kenya’s prominent role and underscores its status as a global thought leader in protecting press freedoms and promoting media inclusivity,” Omwoyo remarked. His core objective at the helm of this global media body is clear: “My objective will be to ensure legislation and policies in member states safeguard professional, free and fair media.”
For East Africa, Omwoyo’s presidency signifies Kenya’s burgeoning leadership in fostering robust media standards across the entire region.
“The recognition on this global stage reflects our commitment to protecting press freedoms and promoting inclusive media practices”, Omwoyo stated. “We will work tirelessly to ensure media remains a pillar of democracy, both in East Africa and beyond.”
Under his guidance, and alongside the newly elected officials, the WAPC is poised to drive transformative change in global media landscapes, ensuring journalism remains a trusted and vital institution.
This significant assumption of the WAPC presidency comes just one day after Omwoyo was also elected as Chairman of the East Africa Press Councils.
(Additional reporting by Dinnah Ondari)
