Sexual Reproductive Health, Gender Violence & Mental Health Media Summit

This morning, we hosted our second edition of the media summit on Sexual Reproductive Health, Gender Violence & Mental Health aimed at equipping media professionals with the tools to report responsibly and impact-fully on critical social issues.

The event started with the keynote speaker Josina Z Machel who set the tone with a powerful message: "GBV thrives on silence and impunity."

As a survivor of gender-based violence, she shared her personal story, shedding light on how the media often amplifies the voices of perpetrators while sidelining those of victims.

Her call to action was clear—journalists must use their platforms to give survivors a voice and drive meaningful change.

Dr. Emma Nghitanwa, an SRHR expert, reinforced the idea that "Sexual and reproductive health is a fundamental human right." She urged media professionals to challenge harmful misconceptions, avoid sensationalism, and report fairly and accurately on SRH issues.

Misrepresentation in the media can reinforce harmful social norms, making responsible storytelling more important than ever.

Mental health also took centre stage, as Clinical Psychologist Shasheeda Mberira spoke about the impact of second-hand trauma on journalists. Covering sensitive stories—especially those involving violence and abuse—can take an emotional toll, often leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Her message was clear: journalists must prioritise self-care, seek professional support, and foster safe spaces within the media industry to process their experiences.

Throughout the summit, engaging panel discussions explored the role of journalism in shaping public perception, influencing policies, and ensuring justice for victims. Experts highlighted the need for ethical reporting, fact-checking when using AI tools, and consistent follow-ups on stories to hold systems accountable.

The day concluded with attendees receiving certificates.