The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), Secretary General Eric Oduor has urged journalists to ensure their safety while on duty.
Speaking to journalists at a Machakos hotel during a capacity building workshop on safety of journalists facilitated by the United Nations Education and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Oduor said journalists should not endanger their lives in pursuit of stories.
He warned about rising online attacks, physical assaults, harassment, and intimidation of journalists, urging them to manage their lifestyles for their safety.
He emphasized the importance of managing their digital footprints and understanding the environment they work in to avoid attacks. “No story is worth your life, it is important to take care of your own personal security,” said Oduor.
Victor Bwire Program Manager and Trainer at the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) implored Media Owners to offer better remuneration to journalists to empower them financially.
Bwire noted that a majority of journalists are socially isolated and stressed because of their financial challenges yet they are required to perform their work well.
By Anne Kangero
