The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has resolved to recall all accreditation cards in a bid to contain fraudsters posing as journalists.

New cards according to the media regulator will have a three-step verification process which includes a barcode, a QR code and SMS verification.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo during a meeting with stakeholders on Friday noted that the council will issue a notice and timeline not less than 30 days in reference to the recall.

The move by the media regulator is in a bid to curb and weed out imposter journalists who have deeply infiltrated the media industry.

Omwoyo in addition said that the Council is committed to fostering a conducive working environment for media practitioners through improved standards and constantly engaging relevant stakeholders to address pertinent issues affecting the sector.

“MCK will remain at the forefront in protecting the credibility of the media and journalists by ensuring that only accredited journalists are allowed to practice in the country, in line with our Constitutional provisions,” Omwoyo added.

Accreditation helps journalists to access information by allowing participation in conferences, workshops, trainings and other gatherings.

It also enhances the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in performing their duties.

According to MCK, the following cadre of people are eligible for accreditation; Journalists working in media enterprises; Freelance journalists; Foreign journalists; Students pursuing media, journalism and communication studies; Public Relations Practitioners; Advertising Companies and Media Trainers.

All journalists seeking accreditation by the MCK, are required to provide a letter from the employer, an original degree or diploma certificate in communication from a recognised institution.