Status of Journalists Report 2007

In this very first Status of Journalists’ Report 2007, the IFJ Africa Office attempts to tabulate issues affecting journalists in the continent under five main topics, namely, Freedom of expression, Safety, Media Law and Ethics, Working Conditions and Gender. Initially, all sub Saharan countries were targeted for this report. Unfortunately, out of the 48 countries targeted, it was extremely difficult to carry out reports from eleven. These are Mauritania, Eritrea, Seychelles, Comoros, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe, Angola, Mozambique, Madagascar and Namibia. This status of journalism report therefore covers 37 countries in sub Saharan Africa.

The report in general highlights that the working conditions of journalists in the continent is still very precarious. Across the continent journalists are being exploited as most of them are still employed without contract, making them vulnerable to arbitrary sacking, poverty, corruption and unethical journalism. Journalists on the continent also suffer from the non payment of salaries from their employers. The majority of those who are lucky to be on the pay sheets are poorly paid. This is unacceptable, when it is evident that some of these media houses continue to reap huge profits. Strengthening the journalists ‘unions and promoting social dialogue for collective bargaining agreements are the solutions to this precarious situation.

The Report has also looked at the continuous erosion and disregard for professional ethics. This has mainly been attributed to two factors; lack of training and poor working conditions which forced some journalists to act as “public relations officers” for certain organisations by tailoring reports that suits these organisations.

The Report was able to reflect on the gender concerns that continue to engulf the media in the continent. The Report revealed that in most countries, very few female journalists serve as editors. Most of these female journalists are not part of the decision making bodies of the media houses that they serve. This is also true of the executive bodies of the journalists unions and associations across the continent.

Despite the negative aspects highlighted in the report, there are efforts on course to boost media development and quality journalism in the continent. The IFJ and media organisations have been working in the continent to ensure the decriminalisation of libel, the passing of FOI laws, and the promotion of better conditions of service for journalists. Meeting these requirements will surely create a desirable environment for the media to function more effectively for democracy and development in Africa.

Download report : Status of Journalists report 2007.pdf