Journalists Urged to Prioritize Safety and Security on the Job
By Amini Nyaungo
Journalists have been urged to prioritize their personal safety and security while carrying out their professional duties to ensure effective and impactful reporting that benefits the community sustainably.
This call was made during a short capacity-building seminar for journalists in Singida Region, held at the Singida Press Club (SINGPRESS) offices, where about 18 journalists participated.
Facilitator of the training, Jamaldini Abuu — a journalist trained by the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC) in collaboration with IMS — emphasized that “when a journalist is safe, the stories they produce are also safe, serving the best interests of the community.”
He reminded participants that a journalist’s safety starts with the individual, noting that each reporter must safeguard themselves before, during, and even after assignments.
Abuu also called for unity and solidarity among media practitioners, stressing that such bonds are essential in protecting one another and providing support, especially when security challenges arise that could hinder their work.
One participant, Edina Malekela, said the training had opened her eyes to critical safety considerations, particularly as the country heads towards the general elections.
“Personally, there are things I didn’t know, but now I understand the fundamental aspects that every journalist must consider while on duty. As we approach the elections, I must prioritize my safety before the assignment itself — especially if it could put me at risk,” she said.
Another participant, Abdul Ramadhani, shared that the training had enlightened young journalists like himself on protecting both themselves and their equipment, as well as maintaining a professional appearance that earns public trust.
“We now have a better understanding of how to properly use our tools and how to safeguard ourselves while reporting. We’ve also learned how our appearance can influence how we are perceived by the public,” he noted.
While expressing gratitude to the facilitators, Ramadhani appealed for such trainings to continue, particularly in the lead-up to the elections, given the wide-reaching and sensitive nature of the journalism profession.
Elikana Obeid also echoed the importance of safety in journalism, noting that the training would help them work more professionally, avoid legal pitfalls, and stay secure while reporting.
The training is part of the Empowering Journalists for Informed Communities project implemented by UTPC in partnership with IMS. Among its focus areas are journalist safety and security, online safety for media professionals, and digital safety and countering online gender-based violence targeting women journalists.
Ends
Post a Comment