By Miraj Guo, July 3, 2026
Journalists and communication professionals in the Coast region are set to benefit from a new platform aimed at recognising excellence, ethical reporting and innovation following the official launch of the Media & Communication Awards (MCA) 2026.
The awards, an initiative of the Mombasa Press Club (MPC) in partnership with Gilitics Media, seek to champion and reward outstanding journalists, digital content creators and communication professionals while promoting professionalism and responsible journalism within Mombasa and the wider coastal region.
Speaking during the launch, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir urged journalists to remain committed to the core values of journalism despite the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
«”In a rapidly evolving media landscape shaped by technology, digital platforms and the race for speed, it is more important than ever that we retrace our steps to the timeless principles that define journalism: accuracy, fairness, integrity, accountability and service to the public.”»
The Governor reaffirmed the County Government of Mombasa’s commitment to media freedom, saying a strong and independent press remains essential to democratic governance.
«”We remain firmly committed to respecting media freedom, safeguarding the right of the public to know and fostering a constructive relationship with the press founded on mutual respect, professionalism and openness. A vibrant, independent and responsible media is not an adversary of government; it is an indispensable pillar of a healthy democracy.”»
He congratulated the organizers, expressing confidence that the awards would inspire higher standards of ethical journalism and impactful storytelling across Mombasa, the Coast region and the country.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga called on journalists and communication professionals to embrace innovation while safeguarding integrity and public trust in their work.
«”As the media landscape continues to evolve, our greatest responsibility remains protecting the truth. Technology should enhance journalism, not compromise its integrity. Let us continue to uphold accuracy, fairness and accountability while using our platforms to inform, educate and empower the public.”»
Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Mombasa Regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi welcomed the initiative, noting that recognising excellence motivates journalists to uphold professional ethics and deliver quality reporting that serves the public interest.
Mombasa Press Club Chairman Ommy Dallah said the awards represent a major milestone for the coastal media fraternity, providing a dedicated platform to celebrate the achievements of journalists and communicators whose work continues to shape public discourse across the region.
Gilbert Were, Founder of Gilitics Media and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Radio, said the initiative was born out of the need to create a regional platform that celebrates excellence while inspiring innovation and professionalism within the media and communication sector.
Unlike national media awards, the Media & Communication Awards have been designed specifically to recognise journalists and communication professionals working within Mombasa and the wider Coast region. The initiative seeks to complement existing national recognition programmes while giving greater visibility to regional storytellers whose work highlights issues affecting coastal communities.
Among the key focus areas of the awards are reporting on the blue economy, tourism, climate change, environmental conservation, governance, public accountability and community development. Organizers also say the initiative aims to encourage ethical journalism
