by Doreen Karungi
Journalists, particularly those new to the profession, have expressed satisfaction after gaining valuable knowledge on Rwanda’s media laws during a four-day training organized by Afri-media Ltd in partnership with the Norwegian People’s Aid(NPA), held from April 20 to 23, 2026.
The training focused on strengthening journalists’ understanding of key legal issues related to media practice, including journalists’ rights and responsibilities, professional ethics, legal limitations, and offences that may arise when media standards are violated.
Respect for privacy and consent emphasized
Among the participants, Hakizimana Fisto, a journalist working with Mama Urwagasabo, said the training helped him better understand the importance of respecting individuals’ privacy while reporting. “I learned that when working on a story, you should not intrude into someone’s private life. I also understood that if a person gives you an interview and later tells you that the information should not be published, then publishing it becomes an offence,” he says.
Fisto noted that the knowledge gained will help him produce responsible stories that respect people’s rights and prevent him from making mistakes that could lead to legal consequences.
Understanding defamation and its impact
Another participant, Louise Mukantagegwa from Radio Ishingiro, said the training provided her with clearer understanding of defamation, stressing that publishing harmful and misleading information can seriously damage someone’s reputation and credibility. “I understood that publishing defamatory information can cause someone to lose public trust, and that this is considered a crime. I am happy because what we learned about media law will help me in my daily work,” she says.
Louise added that the training strengthened her commitment to practicing journalism based on truth, professionalism, and respect for others, emphasizing that avoiding defamation is essential to maintaining the credibility of the media.
Media freedom exists, but it is not absolute
Legal expert Me Ibambe Jean Paul delivered key presentations on various legal provisions governing journalism, including Article 38 of Rwanda’s Constitution and Article 19 of Law No. 02/2013 governing media in Rwanda.
He explained that Article 38 guarantees freedom of the media, freedom of expression, and the right to access information. However, he emphasized that these freedoms have legal limits. “Freedom of the media exists, but it is not absolute. A journalist has the right to publish, but should never forget that they also have responsibilities to society,” he stated.
He further highlighted that Article 19 of Law No. 02/2013 recognizes the right of online media outlets to operate legally, provided they are properly registered and adhere to professional standards while working transparently.
Strengthening professional and lawful journalism
The legal expert urged journalists to remain professional, avoid spreading false information, respect people’s privacy, and ensure that their reporting complies with legal and ethical standards.The training is expected to help journalists improve the quality of their work, enhance legal awareness in media practice, and promote responsible journalism that respects the rights of every individual.
