As media organisations mark International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, the Southern African Freelancers’ Association (Safrea) joins them in recognising the contributions of women journalists working across the(SADC) region, and calls for concrete action to protect and advance those working in freelance media.
From covering elections and governance to reporting on community issues, climate impact, and economic challenges, women journalists continue to play a vital role in informing the public and strengthening democratic debate. Many of these women work as freelancers, often without the protections available in larger newsrooms. Safrea supports a regional workshop held in Lusaka, Zambia, where 25 women journalists from seven SADC countries received training on digital safety and reporting in conflict-affected areas.
Despite their contributions, female journalists across the region continue to face significant challenges, including online harassment, safety risks while reporting, gender discrimination, and barriers to leadership opportunities within media organisations. According key findings from recent global surveys,
including those from UNESCO, UN Women, and the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), 70-75% of surveyed women journalists have experienced online violence while working.
“Women journalists across Southern Africa are telling some of the most important stories in our societies, often under difficult conditions,” said Nathi Gule, Safrea’s chairperson. “On International Women’s Day, which carries the theme “Give to Gain”, we are calling on media organisations, governments, and civil society partners to implement concrete steps: enforce safe working conditions, provide professional development opportunities, and ensure fair recognition and leadership opportunities for women journalists, especially freelancers.”
Safrea presents freelance journalists, editors, photographers, and media professionals working across the SADC region. The association advocates for practical measures to improve working conditions, support professional development, and expand opportunities for women to advance in leadership roles.
Supporting women in journalism strengthens media freedom and ensures that the diverse experiences and perspectives of Southern African communities are reflected in the stories shaping public understanding. Safrea urges all stakeholders to move beyond words and take measurable action this
International Women’s Day 2026.