Home › Blog Bridging the Digital Gender Gap in Kenyan Media 4 April 2025 3 min read By Everlyne Wanja Muriithi A Closer Look at Men’s and Women’s Representation in Digital Platforms In recent years, Kenya’s media landscape has undergone a seismic shift towards digital platforms, fundamentally altering how news and information are created, shared, and consumed. This transformation has created opportunities for both male and female journalists, yet a persistent gender gap remains in terms of representation and placement. A closer examination of the current state of digital media reveals striking disparities, shaping not only who tells the stories but also whose voices are amplified. Gender Representation in Digital News PlatformsThe digital revolution was expected to level the playing field, but research suggests otherwise. A 2023 study by the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications found that women are still significantly underrepresented in key news segments. In fact, 23% of the sampled days had no coverage of women in Kenyan newspapers at all. This lack of visibility extends to digital platforms, where male perspectives dominate, particularly in politically and economically driven stories. Digital media is meant to be more inclusive, yet the absence of gender-balanced reporting suggests that traditional biases have merely been transferred online. Male journalists continue to hold prominent roles in shaping narratives, while women are often sidelined or confined to specific beats like human-interest stories, health, and lifestyle features. Audience Engagement: A Gendered PerspectiveAnother key aspect of this disparity is audience engagement. According to the 2023/2024 State of the Media Report by the Media Council of Kenya, newspaper readership is significantly higher among men (33%) than women (18%). While these numbers pertain to print media, they reflect a broader trend that extends to digital consumption patterns. With digital news platforms predominantly catering to male audiences, the cycle of exclusion continues, and content is produced with a male-dominated audience in mind, reinforcing the gender gap in both consumption and representation.Social media and alternative digital platforms could serve as spaces for women journalists to assert their presence, but challenges persist. Algorithms tend to favour virality over diversity, meaning that stories told by women, especially those on gender-sensitive issues, may not gain as much traction as male-driven narratives. Challenges Facing Female Journalists in the Digital RealmSeveral factors contribute to the underrepresentation of women in digital media, including:Cultural Barriers: Deep-seated societal norms often discourage women from pursuing leadership roles in journalism, leading to fewer women in decision-making positions.Limited Access to Training: Many female journalists lack specialized training in digital storytelling, multimedia production, and data-driven journalism, which are increasingly essential in the digital space.Online Harassment: Female journalists are disproportionately targeted by cyberbullying and online harassment, making digital platforms a hostile environment for their professional growth. Fewer Career Advancement Opportunities: Gender biases within media organizations mean that men are more likely to be promoted to leadership roles in digital media, further limiting women’s influence in shaping digital content. Towards a More Inclusive Digital Media LandscapeTo bridge this gap, stakeholders in the media industry must take deliberate steps to foster gender inclusivity in digital journalism. Here’s how we can move forward: Capacity Building: Investing in digital literacy and specialized training programs for female journalists will empower them to thrive in digital spaces. Initiatives that provide mentorship, scholarships, and networking opportunities can also help level the playing field. Policy Advocacy: Media organizations must develop and enforce policies that promote gender equity in content creation, editorial leadership, and digital storytelling. Gender-sensitive policies should address online harassment, ensuring that female journalists feel safe and supported. Encouraging Diverse Content: Newsrooms and content creators should actively prioritize diverse storytelling that amplifies women’s voices in political, economic, and technology-driven discussions rather than relegating them to softer beats. Audience Awareness & Support: Readers and viewers have a role to play in demanding diverse and inclusive content. By actively engaging with and supporting women-led media initiatives, audiences can influence editorial decisions and content direction. Final Thoughts: Representation MattersThe digital space holds immense potential for inclusive storytelling, but without deliberate efforts to address gender disparities, women will continue to be marginalized in mainstream media. Bridging this digital gender gap is not just about fairness. It’s about ensuring a more diverse, balanced, and representative media landscape that benefits everyone. The future of digital media in Kenya must be one where men and women have equal opportunities to shape narratives, tell stories, and influence public discourse. It’s time to turn advocacy into action. Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
The Journalist is cornered
Home › Blog The Journalist is cornered 4 April 2025 2 min read By Natalie Kakai The media industry is a cutthroat industry, it requires one to grow and evolve with the times and trends or risk being overtaken. In the early 2010s, Kenya began its efforts with a digital migration and completely switched from analog to digital. In 2015, main media houses began adapting and moving to social media platforms such as YouTube and even creating their own apps. Ten years later IAWRT – Kenya has released a report showing how women are faring with this transition. When we think about the use of technology and people’s mindset, oftentimes people will fall into two categories; they would be of the opinion that it is easy as many people own mobile phones and are on social media or they would think it is difficult because of the technicalities behind it such as operating social media accounts. Using technology as a journalist is more technical than using it for your personal reasons. The editorial processes and standards still apply even though most digital tools are readily available to the general public and this is why having the necessary skills is important. It ensures that you stand apart and that you are credible whether you are working as a freelancer or for a big media house. To be a digital journalist, having a strong background in journalism, communication, or media studies is important. You would need to be up to date with social media management trends that includes creating, packaging and disseminating user generated content, how different platforms work and the features that they have to help you in increasing your numbers such as engagement, audience and reach. It is also helpful to be good at data analysis and know how to use platforms such as Google analytics and Meta Business Suite in order to know how your content is performing and to be able to point out areas of improvement. Data analysis also helps journalists to tell their stories, backing them up with numbers gives more details and credibility.While using technology, journalists require lessons and skills on digital security to ensure they stay safe both online and offline. This entails how to lock your devices to prevent unauthorised access and also applies to online accounts. Verification and fact-checking are also skills that are necessary. Today, it is very easy to spread misinformation and disinformation. It is important to have this skill in order to make sure your stories are factual and that you can stay a credible journalist.More skills that help in the use of technology include search engine optimization; the use of keywords to get your digital work more reach and make it more discoverable online. Mobile journalism is also an emerging trend and learning it makes it easier and cheaper to work on the go, it has made it possible for journalists to do stories without the need to purchase or hire expensive equipment. Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
Women Journalists & Tech – IAWRT Launch (2025) Report
Home › Blog › Articles Women Journalists & Tech – IAWRT Launch (2025) Report 8 March 2025 3 min read Articles By Nelly Moraa. Women Journalists in Kenya Embrace Technology, But Digital Gaps Persist, New Report Finds. NAIROBI MARCH 7, 2025- A new report on the use of technology by women journalists in mainstream media in Kenya, highlights critical challenges affecting their professional growth, including digital safety threats, work life balance struggles and limited leadership opportunities. The report was launched by the International Association of Women in Radio and Television, Kenya chapter (IAWRT-Kenya) in partnership with the Association for Progressive Communications APC. It reveals that although women journalists in Kenya are increasingly embracing digital tools, they still experience cyber bullying, harassment, suffer burnout from the demands of long hours of digital journalism, that cloud personal time, and are under-represented in decision making and digital transformation initiatives Dr Grace Githaiga, Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O), Kenya ICT Action Network ( KICTANet ) who delivered the keynote address at the launch hailed IAWRT for readily accepting to undertake the study. She said the study highlights the realities in the media and thus a tool for evidence-based intervention.“The data from the report will be instrumental in lobbying for better policies that will enable women journalists’ benefit from technology rather than being disadvantaged by it.”She called for urgent intervention to promote gender equality in leadership, fostering diversity and addressing the systemic bias evident in media houses as highlighted in the report.The study conducted between November 2024- Feb 2025, surveyed both male and female accredited journalists to compare gender-based experiences with technology. The Association of Progressive Communications Subgrants Coordinator Vassilis Chryssos welcomed the report saying its findings will inform ongoing studies on how women face risks online.“The report offers a great opportunity for collaboration in addressing the challenges women journalists face in the digital space,” said Vassilis. IAWRT Kenya Chapter, Chairperson Josephine Karani who also serves as Board Treasurer of IAWRT international highlighted the organization’s continuous effort in implementing projects towards women empowerment in media.She revealed of several key initiatives that include a project in partnership with UNESCO, to monitor and map violations against women journalists which is still ongoing on https://report.iawrt.or.ke/views/map for those keen on reporting such violations.Karani said IAWRT pioneered a mentorship program for female journalists working with institutions training journalists and has successfully mentored about 150 young professionals. “The projects we undertake are helping policy makers in formulating laws and regulations that support women in media,” she stated.She said the new report aligns with this year’s international women’s day theme of ‘Accelerating Action for Gender Equality’. Rachel Nakitare, a seasoned journalist and IAWRT’s events coordinator said the organization strives to contribute to the Beijing Platform for Action Goals, particularly Section J which seeks to increase the participation and access of women to expression and decision making in and through the media and new technologies. “As governments, civil society and development agencies gather for the sixty-ninth session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), the priority is to review and appraisal of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action .” she said. The report reinforces the need for gender inclusive digital spaces in journalism, coinciding with the International Women’s Day celebrations. The global day recognizes the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It serves as a call to action for accelerating gender equality worldwide. Its recommendations include developing strong media policies to ensure safe digital workspaces, training on digital safety, enhanced female journalists’ engagement with professional networks. IAWRT is a global network of women in broadcasting, digital media, and journalism. Founded in 1951, it operates in 14 countries including Kenya to advance gender equality and enhance women professionalism in media. Read the full report here https://iawrt.or.ke/downloads/ Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
WOMEN IN THE MEDIA EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY
Home › Blog › Articles WOMEN IN THE MEDIA EMBRACE TECHNOLOGY 12 February 2025 4 min read Articles By Purity Kinuthia. The position of women in mainstream media continues to be a crucial topic of discussion in anera where technology advancement is changing journalism. On February 8, 2025, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) Kenya Chapter held an online webinar to validate findings from its research on the use of technology by women in mainstream media in Kenya. The study, commissioned by IAWRT and supported by the Association of Progressive Communication (APC), examined how women practicing journalism are leveraging technology, the challenges they face, and potential solutions to bridge existing gender gaps in media spaces. The research revealed that female journalists have already taken steps to embrace emerging technology even though they continue to face significant challenges. During the webinar, lead researcher Lucy Kilalo noted that the study covered mainstream media, community radio stations, and regional media organizations, with a sample of 97 respondents, 80% of whom were female, primarily aged between 25 and 34 years. Findings from the research indicated significant growth toward gender equality in digital media departments, though disparities still exist. Ms. Kilalo, for instance, noted that in focus group discussions, a female journalist from the Kenya News Agency shared that they are often placed in roles requiring software use, while men were tasked with operations involving hardware tools in newsrooms. The research further highlighted both the positive and negative impacts of interacting with technology tools in media work for female journalists. Positive impacts of technology on female journalists. Technology presents immense opportunities for female journalists, including: Increased visibility – Journalists can create personal brands that extend beyond their workplaces. Equal opportunities in content creation – Technological advancements have made affordable hardware and software tools more accessible, democratizing content creation and enabling more female journalists to thrive in media production. Amplifying women’s voices – Digital platforms provide avenues for women to share stories and perspectives that might otherwise be underrepresented. Access to information – Technology allows female journalists to access reliable and credible information more easily, improving their reporting. Challenges posed by technology. On the flip side, technology has also introduced several challenges, including: Online harassment – Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) remains a significant issue, with female journalists frequently targeted, sometimes due to the stories they cover. Algorithmic biases – AI-driven content distribution can reinforce existing inequalities in media representation. Monetization disparities – Women in media often struggle to monetize content at the same level as their male counterparts. Tech tools and social media platforms water down real-person relations – The rise of tech tools and social media platforms has reduced face-to-face interactions, affecting newsroom dynamics. Barriers to the adoption of new technology. Gender bias – Gender bias remains a challenge in technology adoption, with more trust being placed in men and the perception that they are more tech-savvy. This hinders female journalists from being assigned certain tasks, such as videography roles in newsrooms. Inadequate finances – Funding for up-to-date technology can be a challenge, preventing some journalists from accessing the tools they need to fully explore technological opportunities. This further exacerbates gender inequality. Organizational resistance – Some media organizations are slow to adopt new technology, making it difficult for female journalists to fully utilize their tech skills at work. Cost of premium software subscriptions – The expense of subscribing to premium software can be a barrier to accessing essential digital tools. The way forward; During the webinar, discussions focused on ways to better support female journalists in navigating technology’s challenges. The C.E.O of Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet), Grace Githaiga, posed the question: “What is the one thing you would advise a female journalist to adopt in the era of technological advancement?” Ms. Kilalo responded by emphasizing the importance of continuous training. “Female journalists need to join professional bodies that provide access to training opportunities that can enhance their skills. Organizations such as IAWRT, the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) are among those offering such opportunities,” she said. Natalie Kakai also raised concerns about artificial intelligence and its potential to replace human workers in the industry. Media gurus Jemimah Mwakisha, Rose Lukalo and Merceline Nyambala pointed out the need to mainstream gender sensitive reporting in the midst of technological innovations, the need to embrace female content creators on the online spaces and inject professional journalism in their work, and taking the report recommendations to the next level respectively. Recheal Nakitare pointed out that beyond the research, IAWRT remains committed to continuous training and mentorship for female journalists to ensure they thrive in media spaces in Kenya and beyond. The research report, set to be officially released on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2025, is expected to inform policymakers, media organizations, and educational institutions on necessary interventions to support women journalists in utilizing the full potential of technology. The findings and recommendations from this study serve as a critical roadmap for achieving greater gender equality in the media industry. The webinar highlighted the urgent need to bridge the gender digital divide and create an enabling environment where female journalists can thrive in an increasingly technology-driven media space. With concerted efforts from all stakeholders, women in media can fully make use of technology to advance their careers and contribute meaningfully to journalism in Kenya and beyond. Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a
Enhancing Community Networks: Insights from the National Convening in Kenya.
Home › Blog › Networking Enhancing Community Networks: Insights from the National Convening in Kenya. 17 December 2024 2 min read Networking By, Raylenne Kambua Community networks are emerging as critical elements in the pursuit of bridging the digital divide and in transforming communities. IAWRT Kenya is honoured to have joined other stakeholders, community network visionaries and policy makers at the National Convening for Community Networks in Kenya from the 4th to 6th of December. This transformative event aimed to further discussions on strategies for strengthening the sustainability mechanisms of community-centered connectivity in Kenya. Media and Licensing as a Catalyst for Community Networks One of the key deliberations of the convening was the pivotal role media can play in amplifying the impact and roles of community networks. The media: Digital, print and mass media identify as critical tools for the initiatives by: Raising awareness about the transformative power of community connectivity. Sharing success stories to inspire replication, scale and partnerships. Advocating for supportive policies and regulatory frameworks Dr. Emma Otieno from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), underscored the importance of licensing community network initiatives. The bottleneck in licensing was considered a priority by a number of community networks. Licensing forms a significant step in legitimizing operations, attracting funding opportunities, and enabling networks to seamlessly integrate into other digital strategies. Leveraging AI for Community Networks The popular conversation on the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing community networks was another key subject discussed. Leonard Mabele, Head of research – AFRALTI, insisted on the need to leverage AI for its untapped potential. Mr. Mabele also encouraged us to look beyond infrastructure and focus on other digital initiatives that serve and sustain grassroots communities. Such initiatives include training, community engagement and knowledge-sharing. Building Sustainable Networks A key goal of the convening was to scale a step higher in synthesizing actionable strategies for the visionary teams. We had thorough roundtable discussions that delved into the pillars of community-centered networking, which include: Capacity Building, Inclusion and Gender Integration. Infrastructure and Connectivity. Digital Services, Innovation, and Collaboration. Regulatory and Policy Considerations. Funding and Sustainability. Brilliant representatives from community networks such as Mathare Oasis, Dunia Moja, Community Green Mindset, Kijiji Yeetu and AheriNet shared their experiences, challenges, and innovations, adding depth to these discussions. AFRALTI and Tanda Community Network, under the LocNet initiative led by the Association for Progressive Communications (APC) and Rhizomatica, are driving a vision of community-centered connectivity. Their support, focus on capacity building, resource mobilization, and inclusion of various community networks in initiatives such as this one held in Lake Naivasha Resort, aligns with the broader goal of bridging the digital divide and developing sustainable community networks. A Call to Action. The convening concluded with a rallying call for all community network stakeholders to actively participate in shaping sustainable, community-driven connectivity models and strategies. This convening reaffirmed that with dedication, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, community networks can become the cornerstone of connectivity and digital inclusion across Kenya and beyond. IAWRT is committed to supporting initiatives by community networks and contributing to the transformative role in empowering women , underserved communities and driving sustainable digital inclusion. Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
Mapping and Reporting Violations on Safety Of Women Journalists in Africa
Home › Blog › Networking Mapping and Reporting Violations on Safety Of Women Journalists in Africa 27 November 2024 2 min read Networking On Sunday, 24th November 2024, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) Kenya successfully hosted a webinar focused on reporting violations against female journalists in Africa. The session brought together journalists, media practitioners and stakeholders to discuss the pressing and rising challenge of gender-based violence (GBV) and online gender-based violence (OGBV) that disproportionately affect women in journalism. Owing to the need to curb O/GBV, mapping and reporting cases stand to be critical steps in the fight. This project, supported by UNESCO and IDPC developed the monitoring tool to enable mapping of violation cases using modern technologies. The key highlights of the Webinar included: Introduction to the monitoring and reporting PlatformParticipants were introduced to the monitoring platform https://report.iawrt.or.ke/views/map. It allows users to sign in and map incidents, contributing to data-driven advocacy and accountability. Rallying call to mapping violationsAttendees were encouraged to actively map cases of O/GBV against journalists during the 16 Days of Activism. This initiative aims to highlight the prevalence of such violations, ensuring they are documented and addressed effectively. This initiative is a significant step in curbing O/GBV against female journalists by: Providing a Safe Space for Reporting: The platform offers a confidential and accessible way for female journalists to report violations, ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences documented. Data-Driven Advocacy: The collected data will inform targeted interventions and policy advocacy to address systemic issues contributing to O/GBV in the media. Key stakeholders including the Judicial systems and the police will also be well informed on how to handle reported cases. Raising Awareness: By mapping violations, the project sheds light on the often-overlooked risks faced by female journalists,for public and institutional awareness. Building Accountability: The platform facilitates transparency and accountability, pressuring perpetrators and institutions to act against the vice. Empowering Female Journalists: The initiative aims to empower female journalists by providing tools and resources to advocate for their safety and rights and eliminate the fear and shaming of victims. The webinar marked an important moment in rallying collective action to protect female journalists in Africa by mapping cases – the most important step in gathering data. Journalists and digital media users at large are encouraged to leverage the platform as a tool for advocacy and change especially in these 16 Days of Activism against GBV. IAWRT is committed to creating safer spaces for female journalists in Africa and beyond and keenly underscores the need for collaborative action to achieve this goal. Feel free to map violations anywhere across Africa. Sign into the platform via : https://report.iawrt.or.ke/views/map By Raylenne Kambua Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies: International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists
Global Commemoration and Action, AU HQ, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
6th-7th November 2024
Day 2: Invest To Prevent Online Gender – Based Violence (OGBV) #SafetyOFWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism
Home › Blog Day 2: Invest To Prevent Online Gender – Based Violence (OGBV) #SafetyOFWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism 26 November 2023 2 min read Investing in preventing gender-based violence is not only a moral imperative but also an economic one. GBV has significant costs and consequences, including medical, legal, and missed productivity expenditures. On several fronts, it is necessary to invest in the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) more so as we mark this year’s #16days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence on Women and Girls. These could be achieved through: Investment in Educational Initiatives Investing in educational programs that promote consent, gender equality, and healthy relationships is crucial. These programs, which aim to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, can begin in childhood and continue throughout maturity. Policy and Law It is essential to make investments in the creation and upholding of laws and policies that provide protection against GBV. Adequate funding guarantees proper execution and oversight of these actions to hold perpetrators responsible and provide survivors justice. Community Programs It is critical to provide funding for community-based initiatives that bring men and boys together to debate gender stereotypes, healthy masculinity, and positive roles models for males. These programs target fundamental societal norms and attitudes with the goal of preventing Gender Based Violence. Research and Data Collection Investing in research and data collection efforts provides a deeper understanding of the root causes and prevalence of GBV. This data aids in successfully tailoring preventative strategies and interventions. Workplace Initiatives It is critical to support workplace policies and initiatives that advance gender equality, offer harassment prevention training, and assist survivors in the workplace. In addition to fostering safe spaces, this helps to alter social norms. By investing in prevention, societies can save resources and create safer, healthier, and more equitable communities for everyone. The International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) is a global nonprofit professional organization of women working in electronic media, Technology, and allied media. IAWRT strives to meet the urgent global challenges faced by women in and around the media. This Kenyan chapter has over 100 members spread across media houses and other like-minded organizations. It received its charter to operate as a local chapter in 2005. One of our core objectives is to support the professional development of members through exchange of ideas, experiences and technical knowledge which in turn is utilized as media skills to ensure that women’s concerns, views and values are an integral part of electronic programming. Investing in preventing gender-based violence is not only a moral imperative but also an economic one. GBV has significant costs and consequences, including medical, legal, and missed productivity expenditures. https://t.co/hB2S0fYK6W#16DaysOfActivism pic.twitter.com/uKZhC737FJ — IAWRT-Kenya (@IawrtK) November 26, 2023 By, Raylenne Kambua Digital Media Associate IAWRT Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
Day 1: United Voices: Journalists Join Forces for #SafetyOfWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism
Home › Blog Day 1: United Voices: Journalists Join Forces for #SafetyOfWomenJournalists #16DaysOfActivism 26 November 2023 1 min read In the realm of journalism, unity becomes an empowering force, especially during the #16DaysOfActivism. This annual campaign against gender-based violence demands a collective stance from the journalistic community to shed light on the stories often silenced. Journalists, united in purpose, become a formidable voice, amplifying narratives that drive change and challenge the status quo. As the pen and the camera unite, journalists weave a tapestry of stories that not only raise awareness but also inspire action. This unity transforms information into a powerful tool for advocacy, pushing boundaries and breaking down the walls of silence. “United Voices: Journalists Join Forces for the 2023 #16DaysOfActivism“In journalism, unity becomes an empowering force, especially during the #16DaysOfActivism. This annual campaign against GBV demands a collective stance from the journalistic community to shed 1/3@josebigg pic.twitter.com/KilZ3Nsloc — IAWRT-Kenya (@IawrtK) November 25, 2023 By fostering mentorship, IAWRT contributes to the unity within the journalistic realm during campaigns like #16DaysOfActivism. This mentorship becomes a bridge between seasoned journalists and those entering the field, creating a network of support that strengthens the overall impact of journalism in advocating against gender-based violence. The organisation becomes a cornerstone for building solidarity, amplifying voices, and inspiring a new generation of reporters committed to challenging the status quo. By, Neema Mujesia, Digital Media Scientist, Researcher, and Analyst. Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story
Leveraging Female Journalist Mentorship For Professional Development
Home › Blog › Mentorship Leveraging Female Journalist Mentorship For Professional Development 23 November 2023 2 min read Mentorship “Mentorship is the art of unlocking potential by guiding individuals through open doors.” Caroline Ghosn Embracing this philosophy, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television, Kenya chapter, has, for the past six years, championed a transformative platform for female journalists in Kenya. Handpicked from diverse universities nationwide, aspiring female journalists are granted a unique opportunity to undergo a year-long mentorship programme, pairing them with dedicated mentors to sculpt their professional paths. The recent graduation ceremony on November 16th, 2023, marked the culmination of the fifth cohort, evoking emotions of gratitude and evident growth among the mentees. Throughout the year-long program, the mentees actively participated in a spectrum of activities, including tailored training sessions and capacity-building programs, fostering an environment for self-creation guided by the wisdom gleaned from their mentors. At the closing ceremony, Carla Benini, Counsellor of Public Affairs at the US Embassy in Nairobi, underscored the pivotal role of nurturing and empowering young journalists in fortifying democracy. “A strong media equals a strong democracy,” she emphasised. Such mentorship programmes encourage young professionals to fully venture into and commit to their professions and serve as the much-needed connective tissue between the government and the people for journalism professionals. In today’s era of digitalization, Pamella Sittoni, Group Managing Editor at Nation Media Group, emphasized the relevance of journalism studies and its critical role in societal discourse. ‘The media is needed today more than ever to hold power to account and to give voice to the voiceless and as catalysts to positive change,’ she articulated. As guardians of truth and information, the mentees were urged to uphold unwavering professionalism amidst the evolving media landscape. The lifetime award-winning mentor sensitised all to uphold their values of hard work, integrity, respect, and honesty in their professions. This programme, generously supported by the US Embassy in Nairobi, stands as a pivotal catalyst for transformation among female journalists. Faculty members from participating institutions attest to the programme’s tangible impact, acknowledging the remarkable strides made by mentored students across various spheres in the media industry. Rachael Nakitare, the programme coordinator, encouraged all to embrace mentorship as a lifelong pursuit, urging all mentees to perpetuate this spirit. In conclusion, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) stands as a beacon of empowerment and mentorship for aspiring women in the media industry. Josephine Karani, the Chairperson of the IAWRT-Kenya chapter, extends hearty congratulations to the fifth cohort from Maseno and Kibabii Universities, urging them to embark on their professional journeys with determination and excellence. As Mercy Njoroge, a dedicated mentor, reflects on the rewarding experience of paying it forward, she emphasizes the significance of sustained mentorship from sponsors and the IAWRT fraternity. This collective effort is vital in nurturing and empowering the next generation of women in media, fostering a legacy of resilience, leadership, and innovation within the industry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0lxQ9Ubh3U By Raylenne Kambua, Digital Media Associate, IAWRT-Kenya Share this story Share on X Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share by email Are you a woman working in media? Join IAWRT Kenya for training, mentorship, fellowships and a supportive network of women media practitioners. Become a Member More stories All Stories All Posts Articles Mentorship Networking 31 August, 2026 Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility Home › Blog › Articles Reporting Violations Against Female Journalists: A Shared Responsibility 31 August 2026 4 min read Articles By IAWRT… Read story 24 August, 2026 What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed Home › Blog › Articles What a Year of Tracking and Mapping Online Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Media Revealed 24 August… Read story 21 August, 2026 Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects Home › Blog › Mentorship Media Observatory – Challenges And Prospects 21 August 2026 2 min read Mentorship By William Okech, OGW. … Read story