Scovia Mutesi, chairperson of the Rwanda Media Council, has called on the government to address the persistent financial challenges facing journalists, warning that low pay undermines media performance, adherence to professional standards, and public trust.
Speaking on Tuesday during a session with the Parliamentary Committee on Governance, Gender, and Equality, Mutesi highlighted findings from the Rwanda Governance Board report, which revealed gaps in media compliance with laws and access to information.
“In reality, we work for the government without pay; we are unpaid civil servants,” Mutesi said, emphasizing that journalists carry out critical tasks such as reporting on legislative developments and public affairs, yet receive no compensation.
The RMC also reported that financial and operational constraints hinder journalists from accessing information effectively, leaving only 57.8% of media professionals satisfied with their ability to gather and share news.
