Journalists Trained on Retirement Planning in High-Level Forum at Eldoret Polytechnic

A high-level training forum aimed at strengthening financial literacy and pension reporting among journalists in Uasin Gishu County was held at The Eldoret National Polytechnic on April 23, 2026, bringing together key players from the media, education, and retirement benefits sectors.

The forum was hosted by Chief Principal Dr. Charles Koech and organized by the Media Council of Kenya in partnership with the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA). It focused on equipping journalists with critical skills in savings culture, retirement planning, and accurate reporting on pension matters.

Senior RBA officials present included Director of Corporate Services Simon Kiplangat and Director of Market Conduct and Industry Development Tom Kiptanui, who led discussions on the role of the media in enhancing public understanding of retirement benefits.

The event also drew participation from the institution’s leadership, including Deputy Principal Administration Paul Seurey and Deputy Principal Academics Peninah Ogutu, alongside Business Enterprise Manager Henry Lelei.

Media trainers Noella Sakwa and James Ahela facilitated interactive sessions, guiding journalists on how to interpret pension data, simplify technical financial information, and produce impactful stories that resonate with the public.

In his remarks, Dr. Koech underscored the importance of empowering journalists with accurate and practical knowledge on retirement benefits, noting that informed reporting can significantly influence how individuals approach long-term financial planning.

“Journalists are key opinion shapers in society. When equipped with the right knowledge, they can demystify retirement planning and inspire a culture of saving among Kenyans,” he said.

RBA officials emphasized that despite the availability of various pension schemes, many Kenyans remain inadequately prepared for retirement due to limited awareness and misconceptions about savings and investment options. They challenged journalists to bridge this information gap through consistent, factual, and simplified reporting.

The training covered a wide range of topics, including the structure of pension schemes in Kenya, regulatory frameworks governing the retirement benefits sector, compliance requirements, and emerging trends such as digital pension platforms. Participants also engaged in practical exercises designed to sharpen their reporting skills on complex financial topics.

According to Mr. Kiplangat, the media has a powerful role in promoting financial inclusion by educating the public on the importance of early and consistent saving. Mr. Kiptanui added that responsible reporting can enhance transparency and trust in the retirement benefits industry, ultimately encouraging more Kenyans to enroll in pension schemes.

The forum further highlighted the growing need for collaboration between regulators, media institutions, and training organizations to improve financial literacy nationwide. By strengthening journalists’ capacity, stakeholders aim to ensure that accurate and accessible information reaches the public, enabling individuals to make informed financial decisions.

Participants lauded the initiative, noting that it provided valuable insights and practical tools that will enhance their reporting on economic and financial issues. Many expressed optimism that such engagements would contribute to a more financially informed society.

The training marks a significant step in ongoing efforts by the Media Council of Kenya and the Retirement Benefits Authority to build a knowledgeable media sector capable of driving national conversations on savings, investment, and retirement preparedness.