Celebrated every May 3, World Press Freedom Day, or just World Press Day, was established by the United Nations General Assembly to reflect on the progress made towards achieving a free press and freedom of expression around the world. The proliferation of independent media in many countries and the rise of digital technologies have enabled the free flow of information. However, media freedom, the safety of journalists, and freedom of expression are increasingly under attack, which impacts the fulfilment of other human rights. Rwanda, a country that has experienced a tumultuous history with its media, is no exception. Despite efforts to improve media freedom and access to information, journalists and media outlets in Rwanda continue to face challenges in their work. The New Times’ Heritier Bahizi interviewed a cross-section of journalists in Rwanda who explored the state of media freedom and the challenges faced by journalists in their daily work. George Salomo, Journalist - Kigali Today and KT Press The freedom of the press and freedom of expression in Rwanda seem good to me. It is important to share everyone’s side of the story to produce quality stories. However, some media houses still censor their journalists, and some media personalities publish fake news, which is easily spread through social media. Overall, I believe that professional media bodies are working towards building a better media landscape, and journalists who abide by ethics in their practice can have a big impact on society and their careers. Marie-Joseline Nyituriki, Journalist - Umusemburo.com As someone who owns my own news website, I’ll say journalism in Rwanda has grown over the years. The presence of freedom of expression has helped in news gathering, making it easier to publish accurate, non-biased stories. I just hope that journalists will use this freedom for good and respect their practice. Christian Mugisha, News reporter - Rwanda Broadcasting Agency There have been significant changes to the media landscape over the past three decades, particularly in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. There is now enough space for independent media and freedom of expression in Rwanda. A media self-regulatory body, which accredits journalists and monitors media content, was established, and a media law enacted, which ensures the protection of freedom of speech. I value the freedom to express myself, it has been vital to my journey of pursuing a career in journalism. Adams Kwizera, News reporter - Rwanda Broadcasting Agency Many media institutions in Rwanda have started to enjoy more than just press freedom. For example, private radio stations criticise Members of Parliament, ministers, or any other government official over some particular issues without fear of repercussions, which I believe shows the level of press freedom. As practitioners, we need to develop maturity and professionalism in our field to protect and grow press freedom. Moses K. Gahigi, Journalist - The East African/Rwanda Today Members of the public are still largely relecutant to openly express their views around sensitive issues or to share ideas that are deemed divergent to popular opinions. This is problematic for me as a journalist because, in order to perform my function of doing checks and balances in the interest of the public, I don’t only need people who are willing to acknowledge the good things being done, but also those that are assertive enough to speak even the uncomfortable facts — those that can speak truth to power; such people are not many. Jean-Claude Ntawitonda, Journalist - Imvaho Nshya Today, a big number of journalists in Rwanda are inclined to use the profession as a vehicle to help advance development of the country, and that’s where critics get it wrong. Freedom of speech should not be defined by the number of negative stories that have nothing to benefit the public. Esther Mudahogora, Journalist - Rwanda Broadcasting Agency There is still work to be done to fully protect and promote press freedom in the country. While there have been some positive developments in recent years, such as the decriminalisation of defamation, journalists in Rwanda still face a range of challenges, particularly when it comes to financial sustainability. For instance, we need new models of media financing, such as crowdfunding or membership programmes, and advocating for greater support from different institutions, pushing for greater transparency and access to information, strengthening legal protections for journalists, and promoting a culture of open dialogue and debate. Patrick Uwihirwe, Chief Editor - The Update Media in Rwanda fear touching certain sensitive topics due to the country’s past, and the negative role the media played in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Additionally, many journalists in Rwanda are not qualified for the positions they hold, and meagre salaries for journalists make them susceptible to bribery. These factors contribute to hindering media freedom of expression, although, in my point of view, the country is doing its best to address these issues. Marie-Louise Uwizeyimana, Journalist - Integonews.com Both freedom of expression and freedom of the press are important, and they complement each other. The challenge of differentiating professional media practitoners from the unprofessional ones and the potential for negative use of freedom of expression is present. As we celebrate the World Press Freedom Day, let us all stand up for good journalism and highlight the differences between those doing professional journalism and those involved in spreading fake news. Of course it is always important for one to be mindful of the context of their country while also observing universal media principles. Hillary Peace Tumwesigire, Managing Director -- Family Magazine There is plenty of freedom of expression in Rwanda, but four main issues undermine it, namely; self-censorship, financial problems, limited access to information, and sexual harassment. These challenges prevent journalists from pursuing certain stories and limit their areas of coverage. Fortunately, Rwanda has a media self-regulatory body that looks out for the industry. Gabriel Imaniriho, News reporter and talk show host -Isango Star Radio/TV There have been many changes in the media industry since I started my career in 2017. When I first started out, some leaders did not trust journalists, which made it difficult for journalists to report on certain issues. However, I believe that the situation has improved over the years, thanks to progressive laws. Despite the progress, however, there are still obstacles, such as limited capacity on the part of media practitioners or cases where some journalists ignore the truth in favour of money or other incentives. Rene Anthere Rwanyange, Chief Editor – Panorama, and Chairman of Media Freedom Committee Rwanda Chapter Freedom of expression and the press is a fundamental right. I believe that Rwanda’s constitution supports press freedom and empowers journalists to express their thoughts and publish stories based on facts without harming anyone. However, there is still a long way to go, as some officials are not aware of journalists’ rights and roles, or just choose to ignore them. I also think that everyone should have basic knowledge of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) to understand and analyse news, media reports, and comments. Some measures that have been taken to improve the state of press freedom in Rwanda, over the years, include reviewing media laws, including embracing self-regulation, and enacting an access to information law. Ultimately, media professionals themselves have to keep fighting for press freedom and realise it is not something that will be given to them as a gift.
