Attacking journalists bad for Kenyan sports

For far too long, the vital role of sports journalists has been undervalued, their safety threatened in environments where they should be welcomed as chroniclers and promoters of sports prowess. The journalists who brave chaotic match days, navigate congested entrances (or in Omollo’s case, a designated one that still led to violence), and tirelessly document the highs and lows of our teams and athletes are not mere spectators. They bring the action to life for millions, they build fan bases, and are the critical eyes that hold our sporting institutions accountable.

Consider the ripple effect of journalistic work. Through their reports and photographs, they elevate local talent, transforming promising individuals into national heroes and international prospects. They provide the crucial brand visibility that attracts sponsors, fuelling the financial engine of our sports. The coverage extends beyond the pitch as journalists highlight the human stories behind the victories and defeats, fostering a deeper connection between sportspeople and their supporters. Sports journalists are the unpaid marketing and public relations arm of Kenyan sports.

Hostility

We should, therefore, not treat them with hostility or subject them to any form of violence. An assault on a journalist is an assault on the free flow of information, a silencing of the voices that amplify the achievements of our sportspeople and the passion of our fans. When journalists fear for their safety, the quality and reach of sports coverage inevitably suffer. Empty press boxes translate to empty spaces in the public consciousness.

Football Kenya Federation’s Communications Officer Jeff Kinyanjui has since offered an apology, and while this is a welcome first step, words alone are insufficient. SJAK has rightfully demanded concrete assurances of safety and disciplinary action going forward. The federation, in collaboration with the National Police Service and stadium management, must implement tangible measures to guarantee the security of journalists at all sporting events. This includes clear protocols for media access, training security personnel on the role of the press and swift accountability for any acts of violence against members of the media.

Veteran journalist Mutwiri Mutuota’s call for a boycott of volatile stadiums, rather than a blanket blackout, highlights the urgency of addressing specific hotspots of violence. His words resonate with the lived experiences of many journalists. It is imperative that FKF and relevant authorities identify these problematic venues and take decisive action.

The ball is now in FKF’s court. Their response to this crisis will not only determine the immediate future of sports journalism in Kenya, but will also send a powerful message about its commitment to fostering a healthy and transparent sporting ecosystem. Allowing journalists to do their jobs safely and without fear is not an act of charity; it is a strategic investment in the growth and visibility of Kenyan sports.

Mr is a communications practitioner. [email protected].