Beyond Headlines: Shaping Climate Change Narratives

Climate change is no longer a distant concern; it is our daily reality. From devastating floods to prolonged droughts, shifting seasons are disrupting food systems, livelihoods, and the rhythm of life itself. Yet, in many newsrooms, political dramas continue to overshadow these urgent stories.

Speaking to journalists in a master class for climate change held at Daystar University, panelists underscored the urgent need for journalists to shift how they cover climate change. Instead of focusing only on disasters and conferences, the media must highlight solutions, inspire action, and give hope to communities grappling with environmental challenges.

Journalism as a Bridge Between Science and Society

Zubeida Kananu, one of the guest speakers, emphasized that stories of climate resilience must be amplified. “Journalists can influence actions, even save lives, by exposing corruption, providing civic education, and giving communities a voice,”

Kananu urged reporters to make climate change a daily story, not one that only makes headlines during disasters or summits.

Beyond Headlines: Shaping Climate Change Narratives

Professor Levi Obonyo noted that climate change affects the very order of life, from maize planting cycles to the migration of fish. “Political events often run over climate stories,” he said, “yet the changes in food production and daily livelihoods are the real headlines.” He urged journalists to make climate stories engaging and relatable so they capture both attention and action.

Dr. Keino, Director of Academic Affairs, stressed that journalism should bridge science and society. “A future of responsive journalism means raising public awareness and inspiring the youth, who will demand a livable future,” he said.

Beyond the Newsroom

Dr. Victor Bwire pointed to opportunities in the changing media environment. With 70 percent of media houses owned by politicians, he argued, journalists cannot wait for mainstream outlets to prioritize climate change.

Instead, he encouraged young reporters to start blogs, target niche audiences, and integrate climate reporting into other beats such as business and health. “Climate change is no longer just science,” he said. “It’s about how people live, and we must tell those stories.”

For Kennedy Ouma, a development communication expert at GIZ, localizing climate reporting is key. Rising temperatures in Western Kenya and flooding in lowland areas are not abstract issues, they are lived realities.

“Journalists have the mandate to educate society,” he said. “We must involve people in the villages, where the effects are most visible.”

A Call to Action

Panelists agreed that solutions-based reporting is the way forward. Whether exposing corruption in climate finance, highlighting community resilience projects, or amplifying youth innovation, journalists must go beyond headlines.

The challenge is clear: climate change journalism must shift from focusing solely on problems to amplifying solutions and hope. By telling these stories with depth, creativity, and persistence, journalists can influence action, empower communities, and help safeguard our future.