Working conditions and press freedom in Africa

A pan-African survey of over 1,500 journalists across 45 countries has identified severe economic and professional hardships within the continent’s media sector. Findings indicate that 61 percent of respondents report income that fails to meet basic living needs, while 62 percent work without written contracts. Many professionals face irregular payments, salary arrears, and a lack of social protections such as healthcare or pensions.

Further reporting by the Federation of African Journalists, titled “Journalism Under Siege: Terrible Working Conditions and the Decline of Press Freedom in Africa,” expands on these challenges by highlighting significant security threats. Approximately 65 percent of journalists reported threats or intimidation related to their work within the last three years, and only 17 percent feel consistently safe. These pressures have contributed to widespread self-censorship, with 84 percent of respondents admitting to the practice. Additionally, the report notes digital risks, including online harassment affecting 36 percent of participants, and specific dangers faced by female journalists, such as gender-based online violence and sexual harassment. The cumulative effect of these conditions includes high levels of professional burnout.

In Kenya, a joint study by the Kenya Union of Journalists and the Media Council of Kenya, titled “The Pain Behind the Byline: State of Welfare and Social Protection for Journalists in Kenya,” details specific local crises. Approximately 52 percent of Kenyan journalists earn less than KSh50,000 per month, and 48 percent report no pay reviews for over three years. The report highlights a mental health crisis, noting that 83 percent of respondents reported depressive symptoms, with 80 percent stating these symptoms interfere with their daily work. Consequently, one in three journalists is reportedly considering leaving the profession.