North Imenti MP Rahim Dawood has lauded the Meru Press Club (MPC) for taking a step beyond reporting news to create awareness on sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and promoting mental health.
The MPC has organised an Anti-SGBV and Mental Health Awareness Run on September 20 at Meru University.
Speaking when he received the invitation in his office Dawood praised MPC for taking a proactive stance on critical societal issues.
“When the media put down their reporting tools aside and step up to fight societal vices, then we will make a great impact in this country. When media professionals come out to stand with the community and amplify the voices of the voiceless, that is commendable,” said Rahim.
He noted that cases of teenage pregnancies and SGBV have been steadily rising not only in Meru County and across the country and called for a united effort in addressing the crisis.
The legislator emphasized that the media has a unique and powerful role in shaping narratives and influencing action on such sensitive matters.
The run, which will feature several race categories including 21 km and 15km for elites, 10 kilometres (masters) 5 km and 3km VIP and fun is designed to raise awareness about gender-based violence and mental wellness.
“I call upon the county government, churches, corporates, politicians, leaders, and the broader community to come out in large numbers and support this noble initiative,” Rahim urged.
He further emphasized that combating SGBV and addressing mental health issues requires a multi -sectoral approach.
“We may not achieve 100% success in eradicating SGBV or mental health challenges overnight but if every relevant authority plays its role including the police, the courts, schools, and parents we will make significant strides together.”he added.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) and the Meru University of Science and Technology recently acknowledged the Meru Press Club pioneering efforts.
The MPC announced that this initiative would now be held annually.
As part of the effort, journalists in Meru and several other counties have commitend themselves to participate in this run.
They also want to intensify reporting on SGBV-related stories to keep the conversation alive and push for quicker convictions of offenders.
MPC Chairperson David Muchui and Dorcas Mbatia (Vice chairperson) said the club is determined to leverage the power of the press to drive meaningful societal change.
“This is more than just a run but a call for change. We are using our platform not only to inform but to transform. We want survivors of abuse and those battling mental health challenges to know they are not alone, and that the media stands with them,” said Muchui .
As the countdown to the September 20th event begins, Meru is setting a national example on how the fourth estate can be a force for healing, justice, and transformation in society.
