Body decries poor working conditions for African journalists

International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) says the majority of African journalists continue to work in appalling conditions.

IFJ senior programmes officer for African Region, Pa Louis Thomasi, expressed concern in Dedza during a two-day seminar for Journalists Union of Malawi (Juma) on freedom of association and labour rights.

He said despite the fact that some significant gains have been made in the past few years, the safety and security of journalists remains a serious concern.

“This is coupled with the fact that a significant number of journalists on the continent continue to work without any form or contract, social security guarantees and retirement benefits,” said Thomasi.

He also expressed concern that most media employers continue to make profits but pay journalists low wages.

“These crude methods of exploitation are totally unacceptable. Quality journalism can only be attained if journalists are paid decent wages and their safety and security is guaranteed,” said Thomasi.

Juma president Mtheto Lungu agreed with IFJ, saying Malawian journalists are exploited.

He said his body has started engaging media owners on renumeration.

IFJ is the world’s largest organisation of journalists. It has around 600 000 members in 139 countries. n