Twelve Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC) journalists graduated in reporting for radio at the end of October, and they promise to roll out new programmes.
The training that began on the 19th - 23rd October, 2009 was conducted by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) lead by Solomon Mugera, Head of BBC Kiswahili Service at the British Council, Nairobi. The training was on writing for radio (cues, dispatches and wrap-ups), how to prepare and conduct interviews, how to use a Zoom recorder, and feedback.
It pooled reporters from various KBC units: Odongo Wandago, Mombasa; Salim Chiro, Pwani FM; Justus Amimo, Dholuo Service; Philemon Emongonyang, Teso Service; Grace Wawira, Central Service; Trizah Wainaina, Coro FM, Chris Wambuno, Metro FM; Martin Mwanje and Wilkister Muga from Current Affairs Desk; Susan Akoyan, Turkana Service; Grace Kaneiya, Radio Production Desk; and Jared Ombui, English Service.
During the training two Kiswahili and two English special programmes were produced and broadcasted in the respective Services.
Reporters attending the training had high expectations, and they were not disappointed after.
"I have learnt two key things, keenness and team work,” Martin Mwanje of Current Affairs Desk, "It is beyond just a Certificate. I am ready to apply the skills for the betterment of KBC."
"Now, I appreciate feedback,” said Susan Akoyan, Turkana Service, "am a better interviewer."
"I am confident to file stories, and even chase unique issues than what am used to," Festus Amimo, Dholuo Service.
The graduation ceremony on a Friday evening of 23rd October, 2009 at KBC's Grey Studio was graced by Anthony Wafula, KBC Radio Programmes Manager; Catherine Fellows, BBC Greatlakes Region Manager; and the KBC Managing Director represented by Mbugua Njoroge, Corporate Affairs Manager.
The trained journalist will roll out weekly news analysis programmes in from November 2009.
The reporters training came a week after managers training by the BBC.
*Photo: Solomon Mugera by Alusainc
