Niël Terblanché
The media’s role in covering gender-based violence (GBV), sexual and reproductive health (SRH), and mental health issues was interrogated during the second media summit and awards in Windhoek last week.
The event hosted by the One Economy Foundation brought together journalists, editors, social workers, and subject experts to interrogate and was held under the banner of encouraging more responsible, ethical, and trauma-informed reporting.
The event included panel discussions, speeches, and workshops designed to promote dialogue, reflection and the sharing of practical strategies.
Josina Ziyaya Machel, a survivor of GBV and founder of the Kuhluka Movement, offered a harrowing account of her ordeal, during which she lost an eye after being physically assaulted in 2015.
She said her attacker used his influence to distort the public narrative, manipulating the media, the health system and law enforcement to obscure the truth.
“The media amplified the voice of my abuser instead of mine. My abuser has been declared innocent because the courts ruled that there was no concrete proof that I was physically abused. To this day, there is still no justice,” she said.
She called on the media to give voice to survivors and to ensure their stories are not drowned out by more powerful narratives.
Dr Emma Nghitanwa, a senior lecturer at the UNAM School of Nursing, underscored the importance of accurate reporting on SRH, noting that it is a fundamental human right.
“The media should challenge misconceptions surrounding it. The media should also play an educational role in raising awareness about SRHR among the general public,” she said.
Participants took part in moderated discussions and practical sessions where they exchanged ideas on how to improve reporting on sensitive issues.
Journalists shared the emotional toll that such work takes on them, particularly in the absence of support systems or access to mental health services.
“Journalists often face second-hand trauma, which leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms,” said social worker Charlene Uakuramenua.
Clinical psychologist Shasheeda Mberira advised participants on self-care and the importance of healthy coping mechanisms. She encouraged them to seek help when needed, warning that without mental well-being, ethical journalism becomes harder to sustain.
In a session on child protection and artificial intelligence, Fulbright guest lecturer Professor Susan Kreston addressed myths about child sexual abuse and cautioned against the uncritical use of AI tools.
“AI often lacks reliable data for African contexts and can produce biased or inaccurate results,” she said.
The summit concluded with the Media Awards Ceremony, where eight journalists were recognised for outstanding reporting.
“We saw stories about rehabilitated perpetrators, exposés on pastors exploiting minors, and vibrant accounts of hope from survivors. There were fewer entries in the radio category, and more editorial support is needed to guide these submissions,” said judge and media consultant Alna Dall.
Speaking on the foundation’s Media Fellowship Programme, Head of Communications Ileni Hitula noted that four young journalists had completed six-month placements focused on SRH, GBV and mental health.
She added that media houses are welcome to nominate aspiring reporters for the next round.
“The Media Summit and Awards could not exist without your work. We are grateful for your commitment to informing the nation on these critical issues,” Hitula said while thanking participants and partners.
