Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
In marking this year’s World Communications Day (WCD) Sunday, May 24, journalists have been encouraged to be positive and tell stories of hope during this period of COVID-19 pandemic.
“Be positive in your messaging, give hope to the people. The facts before us are rather alarming and sometimes even worrisome, but I believe optimistic and positive messaging will help all of us to weather this storm,” Archbishop Anthony Muheria said in a video clip published in social media on WCD.
Addressing social media users, Archbishop Muheria said that for some, these media platforms can be instruments for spreading lies yet they are a very useful tool for giving people hopeful messages during this period of Coronavirus pandemic.
“For those involved in the use of social media, I encourage you to continue giving messages of hope,” the Archbishop stated.
He further added, “Let us use the social media to promote positivity, to give education and encouragement to the sick who are in isolation or are quarantined.”
The Prelate reminded all in media fraternity to focus on God while disseminating information.
“To all those in media fraternity be it radio, print media, social media, whatever kind of communicator you are, especially during this time of COVID-19, I urge you to give the people a sense of hope in God,” Archbishop Muheria stated.
Speaking on Pope Francis’ theme for 2020 World Communications Day (WCD) “That you may tell your children and grandchildren,” Bishop Dominic Kimengich of Eldoret Diocese stressed on objectivity, accuracy and fairness.
“With fake news becoming ever more sophisticated, all of us need the wisdom, courage and patience to discern and embrace constructive stories. We need information based on truth which is objective, accurate and fair,” the Bishop said while presiding over a televised Mass at Holy Family Basilica, Nairobi on Sunday, May 24.
The Pope’s message for the 54th WCD reminded people that “not all stories are good” and that they must to reject false and evil stories.
“We need patience and discernment to rediscover stories that help us not to lose the thread amid today’s many troubles (and); we need stories that reveal who we truly are in the untold heroism of everyday life.”