A handbook on reporting terrorism – Kenya

This guidebook is a tool for Kenyan media professionals who are reporting on issues of terrorism and whilst doing so seek to counter violent extremism. As explained in the report, “Kenya has suffered its fair share of terror related attacks including the Westgate Mall attack, Garissa University College attack and an attack on Kenyan soldiers in El Adde. In all these instances, there were accusations and counter accusations between the media and security agencies on inaccurate reporting and sensationalism and violations of media freedom on the other hand through intimidation and denial of vital information.”

The Media Council of Kenya and International Media Support worked together to address the challenges that journalists face when covering terrorism and violent extremism, and to strengthen the role of the media in preventing and countering violent extremism. One of the results of this cooperation is this guidebook. It is designed to help journalists to effectively cover stories without putting innocent civilians (or security forces) in harm’s way, without instilling fear in the community, or giving attention to publicity seeking terrorists.