AU calls on African states to guarantee journalist safety and press freedom

The African Union has called on governments across the continent to create a safe environment for journalists and support their role in promoting democracy and development. This comes as media professionals continue to face threats, arrests, and violence in many parts of Africa.

During a roundtable held in Nairobi to mark World Press Freedom Day, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, said the safety and freedom of journalists must be guaranteed.

He noted that protecting these freedoms is essential for Africa’s democratic growth. "Our niche as the AU is to ensure that the fundamental freedoms associated with the freedom of speech and freedom of expression are promoted and protected everywhere in the African Continent," Adeoye said.

He urged all African states to uphold the rights of journalists and promote responsible journalism.

Adeoye also asked digital users to verify the information they receive to avoid spreading falsehoods.

"In the spirit of Agenda 2063: Let us continue to work together to promote democracy, good governance, and peace dividends on our beloved continent," he said.

He noted that the media is vital in shaping Africa's path toward development and peace.

"The press must be champions of the freedom from want... The press should join hands with the AU in championing democracy, effective governance and most importantly, the right to development,” Adeoye stated.

The AU used the Nairobi event to launch its Democracy, Media and Socialisation programme, aimed at encouraging free and responsible reporting while supporting efforts to strengthen governance across the region.

Adeoye said the media plays a major role in informing and educating citizens on issues that affect their lives and well-being. He pointed out that responsible and ethical journalism is even more important today, given the wide reach of digital platforms and the rise of unverified content.

"In line with the democratic principles of inclusivity, accountability, justice, human rights, freedom and dignity. The media plays a critical role in informing and educating the public on socioeconomic, political and governance issues that significantly impact their lives and livelihoods,” Adeoye said.

He added that ethical journalism is vital in societies facing division and conflict, where misinformation and hate speech can spread quickly and cause harm.

This year’s event carried the theme, "Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media." It focused on how artificial intelligence can help improve news reporting while also presenting new dangers, such as biased algorithms, disinformation, hate speech, and deepfakes.

Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary General Erick Oduor said the occasion was a time to reflect on the gains made in press freedom and the difficulties still facing journalists.

"We gather here to reflect on the state of the media as we mark this year's World Press Freedom Day. It's a day we look at the milestones the Fourth Estate has made over the past year and challenges the sector is facing," he said.

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He added that journalists are often punished for reporting the truth. "In most cases, journalists have found themselves on the receiving end as they carry out their duties, with charges against them being telling the truth."

Oduor criticised the hostile approach some governments have taken towards the press and said violence and harassment must stop.

"We must say no to assault, harassment and intimidation. This important role of holding power to account should not subject these men and women of the Fourth Estate to any form of attack or harm."

He also raised concerns over a rise in crackdowns against the media across the Eastern Africa region.

Speaking as President of the Federation of Eastern Africa Journalists, Oduor warned that several media houses had been shut down and journalists targeted for doing their job.

President of the Federation of African Journalists, Omar Faruk Osman, said the situation was becoming worse in countries where democracy is under threat. He said press freedom is often one of the first rights to be lost in times of political instability.

"In these contexts, press freedom is often the first casualty. Journalists are subjected to threats, arbitrary arrests, and surveillance and, in some instances, institutional bans," he said.