The Alupe University Media and Communication Team comprising of Victoria Magar, Felix Sabwa, and Dr. Isaac Manje, joined journalists from across Busia County on 4th May 2026 in commemorating World Press Freedom Day through a charitable outreach at the Newborn Unit of Busia County Referral Hospital.
The initiative, which brought together media practitioners from various organizations within the county, sought to demonstrate the media’s role beyond information dissemination by supporting vulnerable members of the community. During the visit, the team donated essential items to mothers and newborns and interacted with families receiving care at the facility.
Speaking during the event, Busia County Referral Hospital Pediatrician, Dr. Emmah Namulala, welcomed the initiative and praised the strong partnership between the media and the health sector. “We are happy to have journalists visit and support the newborn unit. This reflects a strong working relationship. The media has been instrumental in amplifying health issues, making you key partners,” she said. Dr. Namulala noted that the hospital continues to face challenges, including staff shortages, but remains committed to providing quality healthcare services to all patients. “We handle many newborn cases, as this is the only unit in Busia. At times we have up to 60 babies, though currently we have 35, and we ensure all receive proper care regardless of their condition,” she added.
The outreach underscored the importance of community engagement and social responsibility among media professionals while marking a day globally dedicated to promoting press freedom, media development, and access to information.
Following the hospital visit, the journalists held discussions with Busia County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of media practitioners. “We will continue working closely with the media and security agencies to ensure your safety. You play a critical role in informing the public, making you important members of society,” he said. The County Commissioner also called for collaboration among stakeholders to maintain peace and social cohesion, particularly as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.
Meanwhile, Media Council of Kenya analyst Ian Onyango expressed concern over the rising number of press freedom violations in the country. He noted that Kenya recorded 92 cases of press freedom violations in 2025, including physical attacks on journalists, and emphasized the need for continued engagement between the media, security agencies, and county governments to address the challenge.
Busia County Journalists Association Chairperson Robert Malala said the hospital outreach was intended to encourage mothers and support newborn care while giving back to the community. “We wanted to share love and encourage mothers. These children represent the future, and the unit faces many challenges that require support,” he said. Malala further commended security agencies for maintaining a conducive working environment for journalists and urged continued vigilance to safeguard press freedom during the upcoming campaign period.
The participation of the Alupe University Media and Communication Team in the outreach reflects the University’s commitment to community engagement, social responsibility, and support for initiatives that promote both media development and public welfare.
