Standard Group, Unicef ink deal on child rights

Standard Group PLC and United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) yesterday signed a partnership agreement to champion the rights of children in Kenya.  

The deal will see the media house use its TV, radio and print platforms to highlight critical issues such as the impact of Covid-19 on children, ending violence against children, access to rural sanitation and parenting skills for young children.

Last year, school closures interrupted formal learning for over millions children for between six and nine months. They also faced increased risks of violence, child labour and early marriage.

Speaking at the Standard Group offices on Mombasa Road, Unicef Kenya Country Representative Maniza Zaman said around one in two young adults in the country experienced violence as a child, citing the 2019 Violence Against Children survey.

“The media has reach, power and responsibility to help shine a light on these threats, put out balanced reports, show what needs to be done and amplify ongoing positive work for children. I would like to thank Standard Group for working with Unicef to protect and uphold children’s right in Kenya,” said Ms Zaman.

Standard Group CEO Orlando Lyomu said media reporting on child rights is integral to protecting them and promoting their best interests.

“As a leading media house, we are committed to providing information on children’s rights - both where these are met and missed - and to include children’s voice in our programming. We also provide safe platforms where children can access information and participate in awareness-raising programmes,” said Lyomu.

He noted that the Group’s investigative journalistic approach has unearthed many important stories affecting children, leading to action by the Government.

Also present were Editor-in-Chief Ochieng’ Rapuro and Unicef Chief of Communication, Advocacy and Partnerships Andy Brown.