"Agriculture and Rural Development: why media matters?" Violet Otindo K24 TV Kenya Brussels Development Briefing 12th October 2009

2 Winning an award – my story! A typical day in my life as a journalist …. We face several constraints as journalists: especially lack of equipment and transportation to location Time management is one of our most important skills

Key Issues for Journalists Specialized training is needed to respond to issues of agriculture and rural development Improved training is needed both in college and in the workplace We need better research skills – collaborate with scientists and encourage them to be open with their results Scientists could win an award for teaming up with journalists Make agricultural stories more exciting and positive Awards and networking are key – CTAs initiative is very important for making this possible Include training on new technologies; strengthen professional associations, especially for young/women journalists who may lack networks

In Summary I would like to encourage your Excellencies to support young and talented journalists that champion agricultural and rural development issues in our societies through awards, training and other forms of support.