By Charles Ndushabandi
In celebration of International Women’s Day under the theme “Safe Newsrooms, Strong Voices: Ending Harassment & Promoting Gender Equality in Rwandan Media,” the Synergy of Female Associations of Women in Media hosted a pivotal Safe Space event.
The event aimed to provide female journalists with a platform to share their experiences, discuss sexual harassment (SH), and address gender-related issues within the media industry.
The event, held at Gland Legacy Hotel, sought to create a confidential and supportive environment where women in media could openly express their concerns, exchange experiences, and work toward solutions to combat sexual harassment in newsrooms.
Doreen Umutesi, Chairperson of the event, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of the day.
“Today, as we celebrate International Women’s Day, we acknowledge the strength, the resilience, and the value of every woman—today and tomorrow,” she said.
One of the primary objectives of the event was to raise awareness about sexual harassment and gender inequality in media workplaces. “We must foster a culture of respect, gender equality, and accountability within media institutions,” Umutesi added.
The event featured powerful testimonies, including one from Uwera Astrida, Chairperson of the Women Media Organizations’ Coalition (WMOC). She shared her journey of overcoming gender-based obstacles in the industry.
“When I started, men doubted my abilities,” she recalled. “Now, I stand proud, knowing that we have a support system that empowers women to excel.”
Mr Clement Kirenga, an expert on gender equality in media at UNDP, passionately spoke about the importance of tackling harassment. “Sexual harassment in the workplace is not just about inappropriate actions; it’s about disrespecting someone’s dignity,” he said. He also praised Rwanda’s commitment to eradicating harassment, noting that “sexual harassment has no place in our society.”
Edith Nibakwe, founder of Women of Impact Company, shared her story of resilience and overcoming barriers in male-dominated newsrooms. “I realized that women often don’t get opportunities in newsrooms,” she explained. “But through hard work, I created my own path and am now my own boss.”
A key takeaway from the event was the promotion of the Gender Desk initiative run by the Synergy of Women Journalists. This initiative aims to provide ongoing support for victims of sexual harassment and create a safe and supportive environment for women in the media.
The Safe Space event marked a significant step in addressing sexual harassment and gender inequality in media. The discussions highlighted the need for stronger support systems, including formal mentorship programs and gender-sensitivity training within media organizations.
“We must ensure a safe working environment for all women in media,” Mr. Kirenga concluded.
The event concluded with a call for continued advocacy for gender equality in the media industry with Mbabazi saying, “The fight for gender equality in the media industry continues—today, tomorrow, and always.”
