Fatshimetrie, September 15, 2024 – The issue of professional equality for women in the media field in the Democratic Republic of Congo was recently raised by Fanny Malonga, a journalist and emeritus producer at Radio Télévision Nationale Congolaise (RTNC). On this International Day of Democracy celebrated on September 15, she shared her recommendations to promote the development of women journalists.
According to Malonga, it is imperative to offer training on female leadership, to put in place laws against gender-based violence in the workplace, and to establish policies to promote professional equality. These measures are essential to allow women journalists to fully flourish in their careers. She insists on the need to create safe spaces within the media, where the voice of each woman can be heard and respected.
The International Day of Democracy is for Malonga an opportunity to recall that every individual has the fundamental right to make their voice heard in a democratic society. She underlines the importance of strengthening democratic institutions, preserving freedom of expression, justice and equality within our societies.
Despite the progress, gender stereotypes persist in the Congolese media environment. Women journalists often face discrimination, stereotypes and even violence in the exercise of their profession. Malonga deplores these inequalities and encourages women in the media not to lose hope. She encourages them to continue fighting for equality and to inspire future generations of women journalists.
Fanny Malonga, an emblematic figure of Congolese journalism and president of the NGO “Lumière Force du Monde”, was rewarded for her excellence as a television presenter. Her hard work and commitment to gender equality in the media make her a role model for all women aspiring to break barriers in journalism in the DRC.
On this International Day of Democracy, under the theme of “Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Good Governance”, it is crucial to continue promoting professional equality for women journalists. It is together, by eliminating stereotypes and discrimination, that we can build a more just and equitable society, where the voice of every individual, regardless of gender, can be heard and respected.