Journalists covering the ongoing protests in the country are constantly faced with life threatening situations, and there is need to equip themselves with protective gear to save themselves from the potential danger.
On Tuesday, July 16 ,Kameme TV and K24 journalist Wanjeri Kariuki was shot by police while on duty, which has sparked out rage from the media fraternity decrying infringement of media freedom. This has also raised concerns over the safety of media practitioners while in the field covering protests.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) on Tuesday, July 2, issued statements guiding journalists on requirements they need to own bullet proof vests, helmets and jackets, all which are crucial to safeguard themselves from beig harmed while working.
“A protected journalist is a free and stronger journalist,” affirmed the council.
The acquisition of the gear is a straight-forward process, requiring a few certifications and documentations for proof of their eligibility.
Credited journalists should first obtain the certificate of importation through applying via the Firearms Licensing Board. During the application, the journalists are required to include details of all the items to be imported.
They also must provide the licensing board with information about the intended use of their gear and end-users.
Some of the requirements by the board include all your media house registration details such as KRA certificate, and Certificate of Incorporation/Registration for broadcasters.
Foreign journalists who intend to come into the country to cover the protests must produce their KRA equipment clearance upon arrival , as well as application for a special and work permit.
Ensure all necessary documentation is complete, revise the Import permit issued by the Firearms Licensing Board, Foreign firearm permit and Removal permit which should be under the escort of an authorized police officer, and requisite taxes where the law allows.
For importation of drones, you will require an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) import permit from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) prior to importation.
Once all equipment arrive, the journalist should ensure that the gear is inspected/vetted by Firearms Licensing Board at the premises and storage.
The Kenya Editors’ Guild on Wednesday, July 17 called out the police for its continued, targeted, and brazen attacks on journalists covering protests following the shooting of Kameme TV’s Wanjeri Kariuki.
“We condemn the harassment of journalists covering the protests. We have, over and over again, witnessed police attack journalists with teargas canisters and dangerous chemicals and the destruction of equipment,” KEG President Zubeidah Kananu said.
