February 9, 1962: Famed journalist Charles Hayes is pictured on his way to London to lead the Daily Nation's coverage of the Lancaster House constitutional conference on Kenya.
Fifty years ago, I was climbing the narrow backstreet staircase leading to the newsroom in the old Nation House on Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi. An elderly mzungu, with a slow gait that belied his authority, stood ahead of me. Frustrated by his pace, I attempted to sidestep him, only to find his weathered arm blocking my path.
“Young man, what do you think you’re doing?” he thundered, his voice exuding an unexpected strength. At that moment, I didn't realise I was standing within the shadow of Charles Hayes, a former District Officer in colonial Kenya.
He was also a pivotal figure in the intersection of British colonialism and African journalism. He founded Taifa, a weekly that he sold to the Aga Khan in 1959. That was the beginning of the Nation Media Group (NMG).
Hayes died in April 2000 at the age of 85. Our brief encounter taught me that one should never dismiss or disrespect age. The elderly have their own attitudes, stories, wisdom, and experiences that warrant recognition, even when they are old colonials.
It was also a poignant reminder: One day, I too will grow old and join the ranks of Charles Hayes who struggle to climb staircases. This brings to mind The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, the American author and journalist. The novel led to his winning the 1954 Nobel Prize in Literature. It’s about the odyssey of Santiago, an old man fishing alone in the sea.
Resilience and tenacity
Santiago embodies resilience and tenacity. His journey highlights a valuable lesson for journalists and other professionals: True success lies not in victory but in the dignity of the struggle itself.
Resilience in the face of rejection is paramount. Just as Santiago faces multiple challenges while fishing, journalists often endure rejections or criticism. Therefore building resilience becomes crucial as we navigate our narratives while remaining steadfast in our pursuits.
For journalists, preparation and research are cornerstones of effective storytelling. Santiago's meticulous planning for his fishing expedition emphasizes the investment of time and energy into thoroughly understanding our subjects. This is vital for journalists, who must arm themselves with knowledge to tell authentic tales.
Patience and persistence shine throughout Santiago's odyssey. His determination to catch the marlin, a giant fish with a big pointed nose, takes time. This resonates with journalists developing leads and uncovering hidden and compelling stories. Success may not always come quickly, but dedication will eventually yield results.
Adapting to change is vital in both the sea and newsrooms. Just as Santiago adjusts his techniques based on the conditions around him, journalists must remain flexible. They must evolve with shifting news cycles, the publisher’s demands and audience expectations.
Transparency, attention to detail and accuracy, are non-negotiable for journalists. Santiago’s astute observations of the sea are mirrored in a journalist’s need to cultivate keen observational skills to ensure accuracy and richness in storytelling, and to avoid conflict with newsmakers and win the trust of readers.
Passion for journalism is also imperative. Santiago's love for fishing reflects the intrinsic motivation required in journalism. A commitment to storytelling elevates the quality and authenticity of our work.
Power of relationships
And the power of relationships cannot be overstated. Santiago’s bond with Manolin, his apprentice, underscores the significance of mentorship and networking, essential components for a journalist's success. Building relationships within our field fosters collaboration, support, and growth.
Lastly, finding meaning in challenges is critical. Santiago’s dignity in struggle exhorts us to uncover the essence behind our work. Even the toughest assignments can yield profound fulfilment.
In nurturing respect for our elders and embracing the wisdom gained through lived experiences, we enrich our lives. We also enrich that of those around us. The journey of aging, when met with dignity, embraces resilience, creativity, and the potential for profound impact. These lessons extend beyond journalism.
As I exit NMG at the end of this month, I realise their significance in all facets of life, and as I return to my rural roots to embrace an old pastime as the village mole catcher, which mercifully doesn’t require climbing stairs. But, much like Santiago, I know perseverance and resilience will be key, just like it was in catching editorial moles.
In conclusion, let me thank readers who travelled with me on the journey as NMG’s first public editor, for the last nine years.
The Public Editor is an independent news ombudsman who handles readers’ complaints on editorial matters including accuracy and journalistic standards. Email: [email protected].
