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Tag: Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK)

  • Isaboke challenges PR professionals to lead ethical digital transformation in Africa

    Isaboke challenges PR professionals to lead ethical digital transformation in Africa

    Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke has urged public relations professionals to lead Africa’s digital transformation with ethics, empathy, and authenticity, ensuring communication stays rooted in African values.

    Speaking at the 36th Africa Public Relations Association (APRA) Conference and Golden Jubilee Celebration in Mombasa, he addressed over 700 delegates from across the continent, including participants from Ghana, Gabon, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Burundi, Ethiopia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Somalia.

    Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke with PRSK leadership - President Arik Karani and Vice President Patricia Ndede
    Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke with PRSK leadership – President Arik Karani and Vice President Patricia Ndede

    Isaboke emphasized the importance of navigating rapid digital change, the ethical use of AI and data, and preserving the human touch in storytelling.

    “Public relations is not just a profession—it’s a force for progress, connection, and truth,” he said.

    Themed “Transforming Africa through Safe and Responsible Digital Communication,” the conference spotlighted the vital role of PR in shaping the continent’s future. Isaboke highlighted the role of Africa’s youth as digital natives, saying they are actively reshaping the global narrative with stories of resilience and innovation.

    “Our youth are projecting Africa’s potential. PR professionals must empower them to amplify Africa’s voice.”

    PS Isaboke with PRSK leadership and CEOs from various bodies
    PS Isaboke with PRSK leadership and CEOs from various bodies

    He reaffirmed the government’s support for strategic communication partnerships to advance national goals, combat misinformation, and build a digitally inclusive society.

    “The insights and relationships built here will strengthen our collective ability to navigate the digital era with integrity,” he added.

    Hosted by the Public Relations Society of Kenya, the conference marked 50 years of APRA, honoring excellence with the SABRE Awards and other recognitions. Isaboke congratulated the awardees and commended the organisers for raising the bar in African public relations.

    He concluded with a rousing call: “Leave here inspired, connected, and ready to shape a future where Africa’s voice is responsible, inclusive, and unapologetically African.”

  • Debate intensifies over Public Relations Bill as legislators weigh concerns

    Debate intensifies over Public Relations Bill as legislators weigh concerns

    The Public Relations and Communication Management Bill is currently under review by the Communication, Innovation, and Information Committee.

    Key professional bodies, including the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM), and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), appeared before the committee to express their support for the Bill.

    Despite their endorsement, several legislators raised concerns regarding the Bill’s implementation.

    The primary issues discussed centred on the criteria for qualification, the certification and licensing of professionals, the role of the proposed institute in providing training, and how the Bill would contribute to reshaping Kenya’s public narrative.

    John Kiarie, Member of Parliament for Dagoretti South, emphasized the importance of establishing stringent criteria for those licensed under the Bill.

    He stressed that it was crucial to ensure individuals representing the nation in public relations and communication were held to the highest standards.

    Meanwhile, Erastus Kivasu, MP for Mbooni East, questioned the institute’s role in offering training, highlighting the necessity of elevating the standards of public relations in the country.

    He called for clarity on whether the Bill would mandate the institute to provide training or merely oversee certification.

    On her part, Flowrence Jematiah, Women Representative for Baringo, expressed concerns about the potential impact of the Bill on the nation’s narrative and its ability to prevent future crises.

    She questioned how the Bill would help change the country’s narrative and whether it could prevent the kinds of communication failures that had previously left the nation in turmoil.

    The Committee’s deliberations are expected to continue, with further scrutiny on how the Bill will address these concerns and contribute to the professionalization of Public Relations and Communication Management in Kenya.

    The outcome of the Bill is anticipated to shape the future of the industry and its role in national development.