AI Ethics, Policy, and Responsible Use in Journalism in Kenya

The rapid evolution of technology continues to redefine journalism globally and Kenya is no exception. From digital platforms and mobile connectivity to AI-driven tools, the way news is gathered, produced, and consumed is changing fast.

During a recent training session dubbed AI Ethics, policy, and responsible use in Journalism in Kenya and tailored for female journalists in Kenya, Dr. Grace Githaiga who led the session unpacked how Kenyan media houses are already integrating AI into newsroom workflows from content moderation and fact-checking to managing misinformation while also highlighting emerging risks such as deepfakes, algorithmic bias, and disrupted information ecosystems caused by instances of AI hallucinations and so much more.

Dr. Grace underscored that while AI-powered tools (such as hybrid human-AI verification systems used by media houses and iVerify platform adopted by the Media Council of Kenya [MCK] ) can enhance efficiency and accuracy, editorial accountability must remain human-led. She also reflected on evolving policy efforts, including MCK’s move to integrate AI into the Code of Conduct, reinforcing that media houses remain ethically and legally responsible for AI-assisted content.

Key takeaways from the session included:

🔺 Newsrooms must invest in strong verification and deepfake-monitoring tools

🔺 Transparency in AI use is critical to public trust

🔺 Ethical AI frameworks should guide newsroom adoption

🔺 Credibility is a competitive advantage in the digital age

🔺 Audience education and media information literacy are a public interest priority

🔺 AI should supplement editorial judgement but not replace it

Here at International Association of Women in Radio and Television – Kenya we continue to empower female journalists across the country on AI and digital tools use, through sharing knowledge and tools necessary in this age of disruption in newsrooms.