In Tanzania and Nepal, the position of women in society remains vulnerable. Continuous efforts are needed to promote gender equality, especially in the media sector, where the proportion of women has traditionally been low and women’s voices underrepresented.
With Vikes’ support, attention in the media sector has been focused on gender awareness and the empowerment of female journalists.
The Center for Investigative Journalism (CIJ) Nepal promoted the visibility of women and underrepresented communities in Nepali media.
In 2023, CIJ Nepal trained with support from Vikes 36 journalists, 32 of whom were women, in investigative journalism methods. In addition, CIJ organized training for 42 editors and media gatekeepers on gender sensitivity.
CIJ Nepal produced 20 investigative journalism stories with the support of Vikes, six of which were by female journalists. The authors of the stories were supported through a mentoring programme where experienced journalists helped them through the process. The stories were published not only on CIJ Nepal’s own platforms, but also in major Nepali mainstream media, which increased their impact.
In Tanzania, MCT’s advocacy promoted consideration of gender equality issues in the media
Vikes supported the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) to promote gender equality in the media sector. In 2023, MCT trained 196 journalists, 86 of whom received training in journalistic skills and 110 in gender issues.
In addition, 52 editors and gatekeepers attended training sessions on gender-sensitive reporting. MCT also organized media management training for female journalists on leadership challenges and supporting career development.
During the year, a mentoring programme was implemented where 20 women journalists received support from well-known journalists to further their careers and journalistic stories. The mentoring was intensive and daily, which helped the participants in a concrete way.
As a result of MCT’s advocacy work, many media houses in Tanzania started to promote gender equality by increasing trainings and developing internal practices.
Tamwa and MISA strengthened their network cooperation in Tanzania’s media sector
Tanzania Media Women’s Association (Tamwa) organized a Press Freedom Day event which 300 media and government representatives attended. They agreed to include gender-based violence as a priority for all media actors in Tanzania for 2023 and 2024.
Tamwa trained editors in Mtwara and Lind districts and organized safety training for journalists in Tabora, Shinyanga and Kigoma. Tamwa also organised three social media campaigns to reduce gender discrimination and promote sexual health.
The Tanzanian freedom of expression organisation MISA schooled journalists on digital reporting, disinformation and cyberbullying. The organisation visited 20 local radio stations to discuss reporting practices around gender.
MISA also organized a meeting on the International Day of Violence against Women, which representatives from the media, civil society and government attended. The meeting promoted cooperation on gender equality issues.
