David Omwoyo Elected President of World Association of Press Councils in Historic Win for Kenya

 

David Omwoyo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), has been elected President of the World Association of Press Councils (WAPC), marking a historic first for Kenya and the East African region.

The announcement was made during the WAPC’s annual general assembly held in Istanbul, Turkey, where Omwoyo garnered overwhelming support from member states to lead the global organization that advocates for press freedom, ethical journalism, and responsible media regulation.

Omwoyo’s election is widely seen as a testament to Kenya’s growing influence in global media governance and its commitment to press freedom and professionalism. His leadership at the MCK has been credited with strengthening media regulation, promoting media literacy, and safeguarding journalists’ rights amid complex political and technological challenges.

“This is not just a personal honor—it is a victory for Kenya, for Africa, and for all who believe in a free, ethical, and vibrant press,” Omwoyo said in his acceptance speech. “Together, we will work to raise media standards, promote cross-border collaboration, and defend press freedom where it is under threat.”

Omwoyo takes the reins at a critical time, with media councils around the world grappling with disinformation, the rise of AI in journalism, and increasing threats to journalists’ safety. His appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on these issues, especially within the Global South.

The World Association of Press Councils, founded in 1992, brings together media oversight bodies and councils from across continents to promote ethical journalism and facilitate international cooperation. Omwoyo becomes the first Kenyan—and only the second African—to head the organization in its three-decade history.

His presidency is expected to spotlight East Africa as a hub for media development and reform, with Nairobi now positioned to play a more central role in shaping global media policy.