Stakeholders in Mombasa Demand Stronger Digital Protection for Women Journalists
MOMBASA — As Kenya marked the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists recently, media stakeholders in Mombasa called for urgent measures to protect women journalists facing rising digital threats. The call comes amid growing concern over online abuse—including harassment, trolling and AI-driven attacks—that disproportionately impacts female media professionals.
During the event organised by the Media Council of Kenya, speakers noted that while the day typically highlights physical attacks and impunity, the digital dimension has become equally dangerous. A regional coordinator from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights warned that online threats violate human rights and emphasised the need for stronger data protection laws and quicker investigations.
They further highlighted that women journalists are often targeted because of both their gender and the topics they cover, with attacks ranging from insults and threats to account hacking and doxxing.
The implications are significant: many women journalists reported reducing their online presence or changing platforms altogether for safety reasons—a development that could affect media diversity and freedom of expression. Stakeholders urged media houses and regulators to develop policies tailored to digital safety, as well as provide training and support systems for female reporters. Looking ahead, the call is for a combined approach of stronger legal frameworks, proactive institutional support and technological safeguards to ensure women journalists in the coast region and beyond can work without fear of digital intimidation.