Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) has marked the International Day to End Impunity Against Journalists by extending admiration to African journalists. In a joint statement, Sekyen Dadik, the Executive Director, and Joy Gadani, the Senior Programme Officer of the foundation, expressed that this occasion serves as a notable event to recognize the crucial role played by journalists in advancing transparency, accountability, and democracy worldwide.
The statement further emphasizes the need to acknowledge the risks and challenges journalists encounter while carrying out their work. They often find themselves at the forefront, uncovering and reporting on corruption, human rights violations, wars, and myriad of other local and global issues. As guardians of society, journalists have a significant responsibility to hold governments, institutions, and individuals accountable. They also give voice to the voiceless, amplifying calls for justice, inclusion, and development.
“Today, AMDF acknowledges the exceptional service rendered by journalists at all levels, fully aware that this invaluable service comes at a great cost. African journalists face various forms of harassment, intimidation, and violence, including threats, physical attacks, and even murder,” the statement said.
The statement highlights the culture of impunity that allows perpetrators to go unpunished, perpetuating a cycle of violence and oppression against the press. Governments, international organizations, and civil societies are urged to collaborate in creating an environment in which press freedom is prioritized, regardless of the circumstances.
“We owe it to ourselves to strengthen legal frameworks that protect journalists, to prosecute those who commit crimes against them, and to ensure that justice is served,” the statement emphasized.
