Get accredited as a journalist (MCK press card)
Media Council of Kenya · sources read 2 Oct 2026
Apply on the MCK Accreditation Portal (accreditation.mediacouncil.or.ke) with your employer's letter, journalism certificate, a portfolio of your work and a passport photo. Every journalist practising in Kenya must be accredited, and the card is valid for one calendar year (January to December).
- Fee
- We couldn't confirm a fee from the official page. Check it there before you pay.
- How long
- Card issued once approved; foreign journalists within 24 hours
- Where
- Online on the MCK Accreditation Portal (accreditation.mediacouncil.or.ke)
What you need
- A letter from your employer
- A degree or diploma in communication or journalism from a recognised institution
- A portfolio of your print or broadcast work
- A clear electronic passport-size photo
- Foreign journalists: a copy of your passport
Steps
- Go to the MCK Accreditation Portal (accreditation.mediacouncil.or.ke) and create your application.
- Upload your employer's letter, certificate, work portfolio and passport photo.
- If you are a media practitioner or a student, complete the MCK Ethics Training Course.
- Once approved, you get an accreditation card with your photo and employer details. Carry it whenever you're on duty.
Watch out
- Cards run January to December. You can apply to renew no earlier than 30 days before yours expires.
- If MCK turns you down, it must tell you in writing, with reasons, within 14 days of your application.
- You must carry your accreditation badge at all times while on duty.
Who can apply
- Journalists and media practitioners who are citizens of and live in Kenya. They must be accredited to practise.
- Foreign journalists, with a work permit (1-year card) or a special pass (3-month card).
- Individuals only. A media house can't be accredited as an organisation.
Official sources (2)
- Accreditation Guidelines mediacouncil.or.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- MCK Accreditation Portal accreditation.mediacouncil.or.ke · read 2 Oct 2026