Envoy urges scribes to lead in peace initiatives

By HAROLD AYODO

US Ambassador Michael Ranneberger has challenged the media to play a leading role in reform agenda.

Ranneberger, who was the chief guest during the launch of The Standard Group’s Radio Maisha, underscored the role of the Fourth Estate, saying more than 85 per cent of Kenyans received news and analysis from the radio.

According to the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), there are 79 radio stations countrywide.

Ranneberger recounted the role the media played when post-election skirmishes led to the death of more than 1,300 people and rendered about 300,000 homeless.

"I remember the positive role the media played during the post election violence two years ago," he said.

The envoy said the media helped to calm the skirmishes following a series of headlines and editorials that called for peace.

Family member

He spoke at the Standard Group Centre in Nairobi as the media house welcomed yet another member to the growing multimedia family.

The FM station transmits on 102.7 in Nairobi and its environs, 104.5 (Nakuru), 105.7 (Nyeri), 105.1 (Mombasa and Meru) and 105.3 (Kisumu).

"The radio station enters the market at a crucial time in the country…we hope that it will uphold good journalism," Ranneberger said.

Committee of Experts (CoE) member Njoki Ndung’u, Directors and staff of the Standard Group also attended the colourful ceremony.

Group Chief Operating Officer Sarvjeet Channa exuded confidence the radio station would curve a niche in the saturated market. "We are skiza uone, literary listen and see… We are out to extend our boldness.