By Harrison Mbungu
The Mombasa Press Club marked its first year anniversary in style by holding one of the most prestigious grand Iftar celebrations attended by journalists, non-governmental organizations and government officials.
The media organization certified by its main sponsor the Media council of Kenya (MCK) has continued to cement its Authority in the agitation for press freedom and journalist welfare in Mombasa.
The press club, chaired by Omar Abdalla boasts of over 100 journalists drawn from Electronic and print media who are all accredited by the media regulator-Media council of Kenya.
Named as the most vibrant organization, the press club officials proved their leadership worth by organizing a major Grand Iftar celebration for its members to reflect on the one year milestones.
According to Abdalla, the event which was sponsored by close friends of the Media was also made to extend good working relationships between authorities, on-governmental organizations and the public in general.
Abdalla and his leadership banks on some of the achievements including agitating for the freedom of the press, accountability by government officials as well as economic democracy in the country.Abdalla thanked partners for honoring the anniversary saying it sends a significant gesture of collaboration.
The club has previously participated in community social responsibility CSR activities among them food distribution targeting vulnerable groups in the society as well as leading mentorship programs in schools through journalism clubs.
“We have made significant strides in realizing the vision of the Mombasa press-club one year since it was formed.We reflect on a remarkable year of professional growth in the journalism profession despite the challenges that we are facing,”Abdalla remarked.
Speaking at the event, Mombasa county commissioner Mohamed Noor Hassan who was the chief guest pledged to work closely with the media for the purpose of bettering the community and ensuring a safe community.
“Its my first time to be invited for an event by a journalist in the over two decades of my work in the country,this signifies how Mombasa county media values my presence and importance of creating relationship with the government,going forward,we will continue to collaborate to make the society progressive,”he said.
Among the key sponsors of the event include BOMU hospital who were represented by operations manager Suleiman Adams, Bulk Stream Company well represented by business development executive Rahim Jajan and Amsons group ltd represented by operations manager Tawaqal Sumba.
“It’s truly an honor to witness the remarkable impact you have made in promoting responsible journalism and community awareness,we congratulate you for this significant milestone and commend you for dedication to informing, educating and empowering the public,”said Bomu hospital representative Suleiman Adams.
On his part, business development executive Rahim Jajanpledged to continue collaborating with the media in activities that uplift the livelihoods of the society.Rajan said the media cant be ignored for what they do in the society.
“We acknowledge the important role media plays in the society,going-forward we will continue to collaborate to better the society,”said Rajan during a speech.
Also present include the Media council of Kenya represented by Momo Elkindy who represented the regional coordinator Maureen Mudi,Haki Yetu represented by Munira Ali and sisters for justice organization led by executive director Naila Abdalla.
“We deeply appreciate your support in shaping the agenda of the society and maintaining journalism standards in Kenya ,your commitment to truth and ethical reporting has strengthened Mombasa media landscape and we urge you not to relent in this dedication,”said Elkindy.
Bulkstream limited also donated 400 food bags to be distributed to different Children’s home in the county managed by the Bomu hospital.
Football Kenya Federation FKF was represented by Mombasa county Charman Ahmed Alamin and Human rights Agenda-HURIA had sent Maya Yahya as the organization’s representative during the event.
The event was held at the Noble Ballroom (Formerly moons)and was marked under the theme “Illuminating voices, strengthening ties:.
Since its inception last year the Press Club has worked with Mombasa County Government and now targets to incorporate University Students pursuing journalism in the organization as they grow their careers.The Press Club hosted the International Day to mark the agitation for an end to violence and organized crime targeting journalists in Kenya.
