By Jabali Digital
Journalists affiliated to the Lake Region Journalists Network (LRJN) had a day to remember on Saturday, as they came together for an end year-party at the Jomo Kenyatta Sports ground in Kisumu, four months since the formation of the outfit.
The eventful day commenced on a sporting note, as the LRJN team went down 1-3 to Manyatta United in a friendly match before members converged to share a meal, cementing unity of purpose ahead of 2026 which promises a ‘plateful of activities,’ including the planned official launch.
“It is good to think about where we came from, where we are and where we are going,” said Patron William Adoyo, a sentiment expressed by chairman Josephat Odhiambo, Secretary David Opiyo and treasurer Laban Shikokoti.
The end year party was graced by Beatrice Odongo, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for sports, culture, gender and youth affairs, Bovince Ochieng, Kisumu County chief officer in charge of education, technical training, innovation and social sciences, and Kondele Ward Member of the County Assembly (MCA) aspirant Sospeter Obungu Owich.
The leaders applauded members for coming together under the LRJN umbrella, noting that there’s strength and success in unity.
They pledged to support the network, urging leaders to organise for a fundraiser as a path to economic empowerment.
“We will walk together,” said the CECM. “It is upon everyone here to say that I want to be counted as one of the people who made this organisation successful.”
Some LRJN members during the meeting. Photo/Courtesy
“You are still very young. Use the energy you have to develop yourselves as you develop others through the work you do as journalists,” added the former nominated MCA.
Bovince Ochieng on his part appreciated the job done by journalists in lifting him to his current status. “I am a walking testimony of the work of journalists. I was in the private sector before journalists propelled me to a decision-making position I hold in the county today,” said the chief officer.
On the political front, he challenged journalists to ensure that Kisumu County has a sound, peaceful and pro-development leadership once governor Anyang’ Nyong’o’s second term comes to an end in 2027.
“So many people are looking up to you to give them direction through civic education. Make sure that you actively take up that role and shape the direction of leadership in this county.”
If elected the next Kondele MCA, Obungu pledged to fight for the rights of Kisumu residents, including journalists, stating that members of the press play a major role in amplifying community voices.
“Let us work in frameworks that can support our people socially, economically and politically,” he added.
Within months of its establishment, LRJN has, in partnership with like-minded organizations, successfully participated in various people centered initiatives aimed at uplifting the community they are part of.
