Rwanda marks World Press Freedom Day with renewed call for ethical journalism

By Elias Hakizimana.

KIGALI, May 3, 2026 — Rwanda Media Commission (RMC) has called for strengthened professionalism and ethical standards in journalism as Rwanda joined the rest of the world to mark World Press Freedom Day.

In a statement released in Kigali, the media self-regulatory body emphasized the critical role of journalism in advancing democracy, development, and social cohesion, while warning of growing challenges facing the media sector.

The Commission noted that the global media landscape is rapidly evolving due to digital transformation and emerging technologies, creating both opportunities and risks. Among the key concerns highlighted were misinformation, disinformation, online safety threats, and the sustainability of independent journalism.

“Press freedom and accountability are mutually reinforcing,” the RMC stated, emphasizing that a free media must operate within ethical frameworks that uphold truth, fairness, and respect for human dignity.

While acknowledging progress made in Rwanda’s media sector—particularly in professionalism and self-regulation—the Commission warned that the spread of false information, especially on digital platforms, poses a serious threat to public trust. It also pointed to the increasing use of artificial intelligence in content creation, stressing the need for transparency and clear ethical guidelines.

Journalists, the statement added, continue to face challenges including online harassment, financial pressures, and the demands of reporting in the public interest.

To address these issues, the RMC pledged to strengthen training and capacity-building initiatives, promote media and information literacy, support ethical digital journalism, and improve complaint handling and mediation systems.

The Commission also called for closer collaboration among media houses, policymakers, and development partners to ensure a resilient and inclusive media ecosystem.

Speaking during the commemoration, Scovia Mutesi, RMC Chairperson urged journalists to distinguish themselves through professionalism, particularly in an era where social media influencers and unregulated online content creators increasingly shape public discourse.

“Let us try to do our job very professionally to prove our credibility and professionalism,” she said.

Mutesi also emphasized the importance of internal accountability within media institutions, suggesting that professional errors should first be addressed by colleagues, editors, and media management before escalating to regulators such as the RMC or law enforcement bodies like the Rwanda Investigation Bureau.

“We should not report to RIB because of a news story,” she added, advocating for stronger self-regulation within the profession.

The event, organized by the Synergy of Women Journalists in Rwanda, also recognized media houses that uphold gender equality and anti-sexual harassment policies.

Three outlets were awarded a total of RWF 6 million, with each receiving RWF 2 million in recognition of their efforts to promote inclusive newsroom practices.

As the country commemorates World Press Freedom Day, the RMC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting freedom of expression, strengthening ethical journalism, and building a media sector that contributes meaningfully to national development.