By Janet Nyamwamu
The Kenya Union of Journalists on Saturday held its AGM amid growing concern over deteriorating working conditions for journalists in Kenya and across Africa.
The meeting, which brought together journalists from both public and private media houses, focused on the increasing challenges facing the profession, including job insecurity, delayed salaries, shrinking newsroom spaces and threats to journalists’ safety.
Delegates said the situation risks weakening editorial independence and undermining the media’s watchdog role.
During the AGM, members elected a new national leadership to steer the union at a time of mounting pressure on journalism unions.
Ahmed Mohamed was elected Chairperson, with Silas Kiragu taking the position of Vice Chairperson. Vincent Owino was elected Deputy Secretary-General, Toepister Nabusoba as Treasurer, Kwamboka Oyaro as Organising Secretary, and Rose Nganga as Assistant Treasurer.
Union leaders said the new team assumes office as journalists across Africa increasingly work under precarious terms, including short-term contracts, late payments and intimidation linked to union activity.
KUJ members warned that unless these trends are addressed, media freedom and democratic accountability could be severely compromised.
Addressing the meeting, KUJ Secretary-General Eric Oduor reaffirmed the union’s commitment to defending journalists’ labour rights, including pursuing unpaid salaries and benefits owed by media employers.
He said the union would also prioritise the safety and preparedness of journalists ahead of the 2027 General Election, a period historically marked by heightened risks for media practitioners.
The AGM also resolved to strengthen solidarity among journalists and deepen engagement with regional and continental labour and press freedom networks, as economic pressures and governance challenges continue to strain media institutions.
The elections were presided over by Assistant Labour Commissioner Grace Mwereza.
