Kenya’s media sector has entered a new chapter with the enforcement of a fresh Code of Conduct for Media Practice, designed to strengthen ethical journalism and safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups in a fast-changing digital landscape.

The revised Code, which officially took effect today, replaces the previous framework established under the Media Council Act, 2013.

It was gazetted on May 14, 2025, through Legislative Supplement No. 40, issued by Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo.

In a statement, the Media Council of Kenya described the development as “a defining moment for media regulation, professionalism and the unyielding defence of press freedom in the country.”

The move to overhaul the Code followed a High Court judgment that declared the former Broadcasting Code unconstitutional, directing the Council to develop clearer and age-sensitive standards, particularly for the protection of children and other at-risk groups.

In response, the updated Code introduces new provisions to address modern challenges such as artificial intelligence, user-generated content, and accountability in editorial decisions.

It sets out strict ethical requirements to ensure journalists and media outlets continue to uphold professional integrity while embracing digital transformation.

The Media Council said the new Code was the result of extensive consultations involving media practitioners, legal experts, academia and civil society, making it both practical and grounded in legal principles.

“This Code, shaped through extensive consultation, is a pact to uphold the highest journalistic standards,” the Council noted.

The revised Code received approval from the National Assembly and was formally endorsed by the Clerk of the National Assembly. The Council welcomed the endorsement, calling it a key step in promoting accountability within the media industry.

Among its notable additions, the Code introduces better systems for lodging complaints and resolving disputes, which the Council believes will help deliver quicker and fairer outcomes while maintaining respect for journalists and media institutions.

In its statement, the Media Council commended the media industry for embracing the new rules, saying the profession had shown readiness to uphold stronger ethical standards.

“The Media Council of Kenya reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fostering a media landscape that upholds the highest standards of integrity and serves the public,” the statement added.

With the Code now in effect, the Council said the country had reached the “dawn of a new era” for responsible and impactful journalism in Kenya.