Busia County journalists have undergone a mental health sensitization training aimed at addressing the emotional toll of their profession.
The training, convened by the County Government of Busia through the Directorate of Communication and Publicity, was organized in partnership with Dhamira Moja Foundation, TrustLab Kenya, and supported by the European Union.
The session shed light on the silent struggles many reporters face, as they are constantly exposed to traumatic stories involving rape, death, accidents, and disasters. Organizers emphasized the need to prioritize the psychological wellbeing of media practitioners who often serve as first responders to tragedy.
Dhamira Moja Foundation Executive Director, Sarah Martha, underscored the importance of acknowledging and addressing secondary trauma within the media space.
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“Journalists play a critical role in informing society, but their exposure to disturbing content can leave lasting emotional scars. We must create avenues for them to heal,” she said.
Echoing the same, psychiatrist Bishop David Bulimo highlighted the value of creating safe spaces for journalists to debrief and process their experiences. He noted that such initiatives equip media professionals with resilience while promoting healthier coping mechanisms.
The County Government and partners pledged to continue advocating for mental health programs, ensuring journalists and bloggers in Busia have access to tools and support systems that safeguard their wellbeing.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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