A recent report by the Federation of African Journalists, supported by Unesco, has highlighted the struggles of journalists across Africa. The report found that 61% of 1,586 journalists surveyed across 45 countries cannot meet their basic needs from their earnings. Nearly half of those surveyed have considered leaving the profession. The findings have been described as troubling, but also raise questions about the industry's ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
The journalist, writing for the Namibian Sun, argues that journalists have become too reliant on traditional newsrooms and are not using their skills to explore new opportunities. They say that journalists possess some of the most commercially valuable skills in the modern economy, including research, writing, and video production. However, many journalists are not using these skills to their advantage, instead waiting for traditional newsrooms to provide for them.
The journalist notes that the media landscape has changed significantly, with the rise of social media and online platforms. They argue that journalists need to adapt to these changes and find new ways to monetize their skills. This could include building specialist newsletters, launching podcasts, or producing documentaries. The journalist emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not an invitation to abandon journalism's ethics or turn every story into an advertisement.
The journalist also highlights the importance of professional development, saying that some journalists have spent years demanding better pay while refusing to learn new skills. They argue that experience deserves respect, but experience without adaptation can become an expensive museum exhibit. Journalists need to be willing to learn new skills, such as video editing and data journalism, in order to remain relevant.
The journalist notes that newsroom owners also have a responsibility to provide fair treatment and decent working conditions. They argue that innovation cannot excuse unpaid salaries, intimidation, or miserable and ignorant management. Employers who demand multimedia excellence while providing outdated equipment deserve criticism.
The journalist concludes that the future of journalism belongs to those who combine strong reporting with curiosity, adaptability, and initiative. They call on journalists to take responsibility for their own financial futures and to explore new opportunities. This includes updating their skills, understanding the market, and exploring new business models.
Ultimately, the journalist argues that the industry needs fewer professional mourners and more people willing to reinvent it. They conclude that journalists should complain when their rights are violated, organize when necessary, and hold employers accountable. However, they should also be willing to take control of their own careers and adapt to the changing media landscape.
Key points
- Journalists need to adapt to new realities and take responsibility for their own financial futures.
- The media landscape has changed significantly, with the rise of social media and online platforms.
- Journalists possess commercially valuable skills, but need to use them to explore new opportunities.
