By Michaella Faith Wright
Journalism in The Gambia stands at a pivotal moment, balancing progress in press freedom with ongoing challenges that hinder professionalism in the industry. Since the fall of former President Yahya Jammeh’s repressive regime in 2017, journalists have enjoyed a relatively freer environment. However, issues such as censorship, economic hardships, ethical dilemmas, and threats to press freedom persist, shaping the landscape of media in the country.
The Gambia has made notable strides in press freedom since President Adama Barrow’s assumption of office. Under Jammeh’s rule, media houses were arbitrarily shut down, journalists faced imprisonment, and self-censorship was widespread due to fear of persecution. The shift in government brought hope, with legislative reforms and the reopening of closed media outlets. The country also improved in global press freedom rankings, signalling progress in democratic governance.
Despite these improvements, The Gambia’s media industry still struggles with press freedom violations. Instances of journalist harassment and arbitrary arrests have been reported, sparking concerns over the government’s commitment to full media independence. The introduction of new cyber laws, which some critics argue could be weaponized against journalists, further complicates the landscape. Additionally, some government officials have been accused of using legal and financial threats to suppress investigative journalism.
While journalists now operate in a freer space compared to the past, they continue to face numerous challenges that hinder their professionalism and efficiency.
Censorship and Political Pressure: Although there is less direct government interference, journalists still experience political pressure when reporting on sensitive issues. Investigative journalism, particularly on corruption and governance, remains risky, with reporters sometimes facing intimidation from authorities or influential individuals. Some journalists have been subjected to verbal and physical attacks, creating an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship.
Economic Constraints and Poor Working Conditions: Most media houses in The Gambia struggle financially, relying on advertising revenues that are often inadequate. Journalists are poorly paid, sometimes earning less than the national minimum wage. This economic strain makes them vulnerable to bribery, which compromises ethical reporting. Many journalists work long hours with little to no job security, leading to burnout and a high turnover rate in the profession.
Lack of Professional Training and Resources: Journalism in The Gambia still lacks sufficient professional training institutions. Many reporters enter the industry without formal journalism education, which affects the quality and credibility of reporting. While institutions such as the University of The Gambia offer media programs, access remains limited, and hands-on training opportunities are scarce. Additionally, limited access to research materials, modern equipment, and newsroom technology hampers the ability of journalists to produce high-quality, investigative reports.
Ethical Concerns and Sensationalism: The rise of social media has blurred the lines between professional journalism and citizen reporting. Some media houses prioritize sensational stories over factual reporting to attract readership, leading to misinformation and ethical concerns. The absence of strong regulatory frameworks further exacerbates this issue. Ethical lapses, including biased reporting and the spread of unverified news, have weakened public trust in mainstream media.
Safety and Security Threats: Journalists covering politically sensitive or crime-related stories still face risks. Cases of attacks on media personnel, threats, and intimidation are not uncommon, particularly during election periods or political crises. Some journalists have had to flee the country or go into hiding due to threats against their lives. The lack of legal protections for journalists makes it difficult for media workers to seek justice when harassed or assaulted.
To ensure professionalism in journalism, media organizations must invest in training programs for reporters, promote ethical standards, and advocate for better working conditions. Media houses should establish mentorship programs, workshops, and partnerships with international journalism organizations to enhance professional development.
The government, on the other hand, must ensure that press freedom is fully upheld and that no journalist is victimized for their work. Authorities must also prioritize strengthening laws that protect journalists from harassment and intimidation while holding perpetrators accountable. Additionally, ensuring fair economic policies for media houses, such as tax incentives and funding opportunities, can help strengthen independent journalism.
Press unions and civil society organizations also have a critical role to play in advocating for media reforms and protecting journalists’ rights. Creating a collaborative environment between the government, media practitioners, and regulatory bodies is key to fostering a responsible and independent press.
The Gambia’s journalism industry is at a turning point. While the country has come a long way from the oppressive media environment of the past, sustained efforts are needed to professionalize the industry. With greater investment in media training, better economic conditions for journalists, and a stronger commitment to press freedom, journalism in The Gambia can thrive as a pillar of democracy.
Furthermore, media organizations must embrace digital transformation and adapt to new trends in journalism. The rise of digital media platforms presents an opportunity for independent reporting and audience engagement. By leveraging online platforms, journalists can expand their reach and provide more diverse perspectives on national and global issues.
As the nation progresses, the media’s role remains crucial in holding power to account, informing the public, and shaping an informed citizenry. The success of professional journalism in The Gambia will ultimately depend on a collective effort from journalists, media organizations, policymakers, and the public. The media’s ability to remain resilient, ethical, and independent will determine the future of democracy and press freedom in the country.