Sexual harassment remains a pervasive challenge for women journalists in Kenya, with 38.7 per cent identifying it as a major workplace concern, a new report by the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) has shown. The report, titled 'Status of Women in Media in Kenya 2025,' was released on April 29, 2026, and surveyed 1,200 women journalists across the country.
The findings indicate that 62.3 per cent of respondents reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment in the workplace, ranging from verbal comments to physical advances. Additionally, 45.1 per cent said they had faced safety concerns, including threats and intimidation, while reporting in the field.
The report also highlights that 71.8 per cent of women journalists said they had not reported incidents of harassment due to fear of retaliation or lack of trust in institutional mechanisms. AMWIK called for stronger enforcement of workplace policies and better support systems for victims.
These findings align with global trends, as a 2024 UNESCO survey found that 73 per cent of women journalists worldwide had experienced online violence, often linked to their work. The AMWIK report recommends media houses adopt zero-tolerance policies and provide mental health support for affected journalists.
