Wajir Peace and Development Agency Trains Wajir based Journalists and Digital Creators on Media’s Role in Good Governance

By Mohamed Siyad - Reporter

Kenya, January 22, 2026 - The Wajir Peace and Development Agency (WPDA) has held a capacity-building seminar for journalists and digital content creators, urging the responsible use of media to strengthen good governance and public participation in Wajir County.

The one-day workshop, held at Midpoint Hotel in Wajir, brought together journalists from mainstream media houses, online digital platforms and popular social media creators. It was organised by WPDA in partnership with the Strengthening Agency for Social Accountability (SASA).

The forum provided an open platform for discussion on the growing influence of traditional and digital media in democratic governance, with a focus on promoting inclusive, transparent and accountable leadership.

Participants noted that online platforms now play a critical role in shaping public opinion and civic engagement, particularly among young people, making responsible information sharing more important than ever.

“Media and digital platforms are powerful tools,” said Abdinoor, a programme officer at WPDA and one of the facilitators. “When used responsibly, they can promote accountability, unity and informed civic participation. But when misused, they can fuel misinformation and undermine social cohesion.”

Organisers said the seminar aimed to equip media practitioners and content creators with skills to verify information, counter misinformation and promote accurate, balanced reporting on governance issues.

Emphasis was also placed on constructive criticism, ethical storytelling and respectful dialogue between citizens and leaders.

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Participants agreed that content creators have a duty to uphold professional standards, avoid inflammatory narratives and contribute to peace-building efforts, particularly in a county that has previously faced security and social cohesion challenges.

“Our objective is not to silence criticism,” said Abdullah Jamac, a veteran journalist and facilitator. “Rather, we want to ensure that public conversations around governance are factual, balanced and solution-oriented, so they contribute to development and accountability.”

The training forms part of a wider programme aimed at strengthening citizen participation and social accountability across Wajir County.

Organisers said similar engagements will continue to deepen public awareness, promote responsible digital engagement and strengthen democratic governance.

As digital spaces continue to expand, stakeholders expressed optimism that sustained collaboration with journalists and content creators will help build a more informed, active and responsible citizenry in Wajir County.