In the pursuit of global sustainable development, the importance of effective communication cannot be overstated.
Recognizing this, the recent Media Engagement Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Reporting in Kenya proved to be an important event, highlighting best reporting practices and encouraging media stakeholders to play an active role in advancing the SDGs.
The SDGs, a set of 17 interconnected goals adopted by United Nations member states in 2015, provide a roadmap for a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable world by 2030. However, the journey towards their realization has been marked by both successes and challenges. As highlighted during the forum, there has been mixed progress in the attainment of the SDGs, with some goals making commendable strides while others lag behind.
Notably, SDG 13, focused on climate action has witnessed commendable progress in Kenya. This progress can be attributed, in part, to the concerted efforts to increase tree cover and address climate change.
Yet, while advancements have been made, it is clear that there is more work to be done.
The forum emphasized the potential of using parliamentary voices to rally support for SDG projects at both the individual and county levels. By leveraging the influence of parliamentarians, policymakers can facilitate the implementation of SDG initiatives, leading to a more significant impact.
“Now more than ever, the world needs all hands on deck to recover and accelerate efforts to achieve the sustainable development goals,” Florence Syevuo, the Executive Director of SDGs Kenya Forum, added.
During the forum’s discussions, participants delved into key principles and guidelines for reporting on the SDGs. Accurate and unbiased reporting, rooted in evidence-based information, emerged as fundamental. Moreover, the importance of presenting diverse perspectives was underscored, as this enriches the narrative and fosters a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and solutions associated with the SDGs.
Reflecting on the feedback from Kenya’s delegation to the 2023 High-Level Political Forum, the forum attendees gained insight into the progress and challenges the nation faces in achieving the SDGs.
The lessons learned and best practices shared during the forum serve as a valuable foundation for informed reporting. By disseminating this feedback, the media can contribute to a well-rounded narrative that takes into account both successes and areas needing improvement.
The forum also highlighted Kenya’s Voluntary Sub-National Review, which showcased the localization of the SDGs at the sub-national level. The role of counties and cities in driving SDGs progress from the grassroots level was emphasized.
By sharing success stories and projects from these local entities, the media can spotlight the significant contributions they make and inspire others to adopt similar approaches.
