MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo (Center) with veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka (Left ) and Veteran Journalist Lee Njiru (Right) during a press briefing in Nairobi on July 9, 2026. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has announced its support for the Golden Jubilee celebrations marking veteran broadcaster Fred Obachi Machoka's 50-year career, unveiling plans to use the milestone as the foundation for a long-term programme to honour and preserve the legacy of Kenya's media pioneers.
The celebrations, scheduled for September, will also serve as the launchpad for a structured initiative aimed at recognising media veterans, documenting their contributions, and harnessing their experience to mentor the next generation of journalists.
Speaking during the official launch in Nairobi, MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo said the Council intends to transform what he described as the industry's "brain drain" into "brain gain" by ensuring retired journalists continue sharing their expertise, professional values and institutional knowledge.
"The event aims to celebrate both the past achievements of veterans and their future contributions. The goal is to create a legacy that will outlive the current generation and benefit future journalists," Omwoyo said.
He added that experienced media practitioners should not be allowed to fade into retirement without passing on their skills, noting that the Council will provide secretariat support to ensure the successful planning and execution of the September event. The celebration will also provide a platform for discussions on the welfare of retired journalists and their continued role in strengthening the profession.
Machoka, whose broadcasting career spans five decades, described the event as a tribute to the many pioneers who laid the foundation of Kenya's media industry rather than a personal celebration.
"When a profession honours its veterans, it tells every journalist and broadcaster still on duty that their work has worth beyond the day's bulletin," he said.
The veteran broadcaster said the partnership with the media regulator will help establish structured mentorship programmes, including masterclasses and industry engagements, where young journalists can benefit directly from the knowledge and experience of seasoned professionals. He noted that the celebrations will honour pioneers of Kenyan radio and television while showcasing the industry's transformation from the analogue era to the digital age.
Veteran journalist Lee Njiru welcomed proposals to establish a welfare programme for retired journalists, saying many continue to face significant challenges after leaving active service.
Pamela Mburia praised the collaboration between Machoka and the Media Council, saying it would create a lasting impact on the industry through structured support for media professionals.
Meanwhile, Zubeida Kananu called for greater protection of mainstream media and emphasised the need to tap into the expertise of veteran journalists to strengthen the profession and nurture emerging talent.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations are expected to bring together journalists, editors, broadcasters, industry stakeholders and renowned rumba musicians from across Africa to celebrate Machoka's contribution and recognise the enduring legacy of Kenya's media veterans.
