The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) has ushered in a new era of leadership following the election of a fresh Board of Directors and Board of Trustees during its Annual General Meeting held on June 28, 2025, at the Meridian Hotel in Nairobi.
Taking over as Chairperson is Robi Koki Ochieng, a renowned media and communications expert and current Chair of the Media and Communication Department at the United States International University–Africa. A vocal advocate for gender equality and digital safety.
In her inaugural address, incoming Chairperson Robi Koki Ochieng outlined an ambitious six-point agenda for her tenure which includes strengthening governeance and and embracing digital innovation.
“Our leadership will focus on strengthening governance systems, forging strategic partnerships and ensuring financial sustainability,” she stated. “Equally crucial will be our commitment to member welfare, thought leadership, and embracing digital innovation to future-proof our organization.”
“We recognize that our role is not to dictate but to facilitate and create an enabling environment where every media woman can thrive and lead.”
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Joining her at the helm are Vice Chairperson Elizabeth Limagur, a conflict reporting specialist with a strong background in governance, and Treasurer Joyce Mbataru, a development communication expert. The board also includes investigative journalist Mary Mwendwa of Talk Africa, corporate communications specialist Lynn Nzambi, The Star’s senior journalist Nancy Agutu and Clara Micheni, a seasoned communications and public relations professional.
In addition, a new Board of Trustees was constituted to provide oversight. It comprises media academic Anne Anjao Eboi, communication professional Mercy Wairimu Maina, and health and environment reporter Victoria Musimbi Masaya.
Outgoing Chairperson Dr. Jane Thuo reflected on her tenure, highlighting the strides made since 2021 when AMWIK faced financial strain and dwindling donor confidence.
“Through strategic reforms, we not only stabilized the organization but increased funding by 260 percent and expanded our membership base,” she noted. Dr.
Thuo also pointed to the successful review of AMWIK’s constitution and the development of new policies as significant milestones, urging the incoming team to prioritize the acquisition of permanent premises and continued member-centered innovation.
Executive Director Queenter Mbori presented the 2024 performance report, describing the year as one marked by both challenges and breakthrough achievements. Among the highlights was AMWIK’s leadership in advocating for journalist safety during anti-Finance Bill protests and sustained national campaigns on gender equity and anti-femicide efforts. The organization also implemented the G7 Women Governors Initiative and launched a GBV helpline in response to rising violence against women.
In the realm of research and advocacy, AMWIK’s report on sexual harassment in newsrooms; revealing that 60 percent of media professionals had experienced harassment, sparked nationwide debate and calls for policy reform.
With Sh27.4 million in assets reported at the close of 2024, AMWIK is positioning itself for sustainable growth. The new board plans to build on this momentum by enhancing digital advocacy, particularly around the rising threat of online harassment targeting women journalists while also expanding member engagement and broadening its funding base beyond traditional grant models.
As AMWIK enters its 43rd year, its new leadership is tasked with not only building on past successes but ensuring that women in media continue to lead, influence and thrive in an increasingly complex digital and political environment.
