By Neema Mujesia,
Ending impunity for crimes against journalists remains one of the most pressing and complex challenges of our time. Ensuring justice and protection for journalists is not only about safeguarding individuals, it is about defending the public’s right to information and strengthening democracy itself.
This year’s observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists focuses on the escalating risks women journalists face in digital spaces. While technology has transformed how we share stories, advocate for justice, and connect globally, it has also introduced new dangers. Women, particularly those in public-facing roles such as journalists, politicians, and scientists, are increasingly targeted through AI-driven harassment, deepfakes, gendered disinformation, and digital surveillance, forms of abuse collectively referred to as Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV).
The rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has amplified these threats, enabling malicious actors to manipulate images, voices, and narratives to silence and discredit women in media. The chilling effect of such violations extends far beyond individuals. It undermines freedom of expression, discourages civic participation, and erodes trust in digital spaces.
At KICTANet, we recognize the urgency of addressing this evolving form of violence. Through our programs and partnerships, we are working to raise awareness, strengthen policy dialogue, and empower individuals to take action. Our Chat GBV initiative serves as a call to action, urging all stakeholders to openly discuss, document, and disrupt technology-facilitated GBV.
To support this effort, KICTANet provides digital tools that empower communities to respond:
- Report cases anonymously through our WhatsApp Tipline: https://wa.me/254758947550
- Track online GBV trends and explore insights on our OGBV Map: https://ogbv.kictanet.or.ke/map
As AI continues to reshape our communication landscape, collective vigilance and accountability are more vital than ever. Together, we can ensure that technology remains a tool for empowerment, not harm, and that women journalists can continue to tell the stories that shape our world, free from fear or violence.