The Media Council of Kenya is welcoming media support groups to partner with the Council in the fight against quacks as it seeks to promote professionalism in the sector.

MCK Director, Media Training and Development Victor Bwire told a sensitisation session on accreditation that the associations can support the regulator by encouraging their members to adhere to the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya in their work.

The session comes as the media regulator 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.

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.