The Hidden Struggles of Journalists

Picture Amina, a young, ambitious journalist who recently joined one of Nairobi’s leading news outlets. Eager to carve out her niche, she dives headfirst into her assignments, often working late into the night. However, Amina soon finds herself entangled in a web of unwanted advances and inappropriate comments from a senior colleague. Her attempts to voice her discomfort are met with indifference and dismissal. Amina’s story is not unique; it echoes the experiences of many female journalists across Kenya.

According to a comprehensive survey involving 240 participants, conducted by the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), 59% of journalists in Kenyan newsrooms have experienced sexual harassment. This statistic reveals a deeply entrenched culture of gender-based discrimination and abuse, creating a toxic work environment that erodes trust among colleagues and leaves journalists feeling vulnerable.

The Global Perspective

Sexual harassment is a global phenomenon, transcending borders and cultures. The #MeToo movement, which gained momentum in 2017, shone a spotlight on its prevalence across diverse industries, including journalism. This movement empowered survivors to break their silence, confront their harassers, and demand justice. However, in Kenya, the issue remains largely unaddressed, with many victims fearing retaliation and stigmatization.

In the East African region, discussions surrounding sexual harassment have been growing, driven by a burgeoning awareness of gender-based violence and the imperative of women’s rights. Yet, journalists often find themselves navigating precarious terrains, entangled in complex relationships with sources, subjects, and colleagues, which creates fertile ground for sexual harassment.

Local Context and Misogyny

Kenya’s media landscape, known for its press freedom and vibrant newsrooms, is not immune to challenges. Gender dynamics, power imbalances, and societal norms influence the experiences of journalists within the newsroom. The WAN-IFRA research conducted between 2020 and 2021 identified Kenya as having the highest prevalence of sexual harassment of female journalists in the region, with 79% experiencing verbal harassment.

The survey revealed that 61% of respondents felt that “men who feel entitled” contributed to the high prevalence of sexual harassment. This pervasive misogyny is linked to media capture, where male perpetrators continue to work in newsrooms unchecked. The lack of effective reporting mechanisms and limited protection for victims perpetuates this cycle of abuse.

The Vulnerability of Female Interns

Consider the plight of Sarah, a fresh intern eager to gain experience in the industry. She quickly becomes a target for her senior colleagues, who exploit her eagerness and vulnerability. Sarah’s story demonstrates the statistic that 40% of female interns have experienced sexual harassment. Young journalists, particularly interns, are often susceptible to exploitation, raising concerns about the lack of protection and mentorship available to them.

Implications for Career Progression

The impact of sexual harassment on career progression is profound. When harassment goes unattended, victims may leave the industry prematurely, depriving newsrooms of fresh talent and diverse voices. The fear of harassment can deter young women from pursuing journalism as a career, contributing to the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within the industry.

Urgent Need for Change

The findings of the AMWIK study emphasize the urgent need for reform in Kenyan newsrooms. News organizations must take proactive measures to create safe and inclusive environments, provide channels for reporting harassment, and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Mentorship and support programs for interns and early-career journalists can help mitigate their vulnerability.

In the words of a journalist who chose to remain anonymous, “We must break the silence. Our stories matter, and our voices deserve to be heard. It’s time for change, for accountability, and for justice.”

The post Voices in the Shadows: Unveiling Sexual Harassment in Kenya’s Media Industry appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.

The Founder of Woman Kenya Network replaces Sharon Kechula who served as the acting executive director for four months. 

A statement shared by AMWIK board that was signed by the chairperson Jane Thuo says that Queenter’s  appointment follows a rigorous and competitive hiring process. 

The board said,”She has demonstrably championed gender equality throughout her career, establishing a Gender Desk, revamping anti-sexual harassment policies, and launching innovative mentorship programs,”

Ms Mbori’s passion and commitment in championing gender equality, inclusitivity  and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups align with AMWIK’s mission and will ensure its continuity to its members and stakeholders. 

Speaking during an interview with Woman Kenya Network, Ms Mbori relayed optimism in her new role. Being keen on making impact, Queenter asserted that the platform will allow her to serve women in media across the forty seven counties.

She shared, 

” This is a platform I wanted to tap into because I’m really keen on making an  impact. AMWIK offers a great space to engage women in the media because it draws from the entire nation the 47 counties in Kenya. We have members across the board representing different media organizations and related fields such as communication and Public Relations ( PR). 

“AMWIK has the potential to create opportunities for women in the media in the Public Relations space and the potential to pull resources from these women which can be used to advance  democracy and enhance media freedom in the country.” 

The celebrated advocate for gender equality has demonstrated her passion and commitment in many capacities.She has over twelve years in media management across Africa. The Moi University alumnus has held editorial positions at Mwananchi Communications LTD, Bang! Magazine and Standard Media Group PLC. 

As a certified media trainer , the award winning multi media journalist is an expert in understanding the challenges and opportunities that face women in the media industry.

 Her background in gender inclusive story telling, thought leadership and sustainable journalism make her well-equipped to navigate the ever changing media landscape. 

Queenter’s commitment goes beyond the newsroom. She also offers her expertise to multiple organizations. She is a founding member of the Standard Group Women Network (SGWN).

Queenter is the current Board Chair of SGWN and sits on other boards including African Women in Media and Kigali Declaration Advisory Committee. 

Woman Kenya Network As A Trusted Voice For Kenyan Women 

Woman Kenya Network (WOKN) is a distinguished media company that’s committed to advancing gender equality and promoting the equitable participation of women and girls in society.

 Launched in 2018, WOKN has grown in leaps and bounds to become an award-winning platform and the trusted voice for women and girls. 

WOKN is a fully-fledged digital media platform with a vibrant social media presence on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

WOKN has become a trusted and reliable source of information on gender-sensitive content covering diverse thematic areas including Politics, Climate, Peace and Security, Gender Justice, Health, Economic Empowerment, and SRHR as guided by SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.  

The media company is the main sponsor of the Top 20 Most Influential Women in Kenya Awards. They also hold regular themed events and social networks like the Women in Leadership and provide a platform for women to build networks and advance gender equality and inclusion.

The Association of Media Women In Kenya 

AMWIK was founded in 1982 by a group of women journalist at a time when women voices and issues were given very little attention in the media. 

AMWIK’s objective is to promote an informed and resourceful society through professional development and transformation of the media to enhance the status of women in Kenya.

The organization pulls over 300 women in the media across different parts of Kenya , community networks and media associations across 47 Kenyan counties, pulling their professional skills and giving visibility to the concerns of women. 

AMWIK’s vision is to see a society in which the media embraces and promotes equitable development, human rights and women rights. 

AMWIK’s mission is to use the media to promote an informed and gender responsive society in Kenya and Africa.

The post CEO Woman Kenya Network , Queenter Mbori Determined to Elevate Women Across Kenya as AMWIK’s New Executive Director appeared first on Woman Kenya Network.