Press Freedom Day: Buea Journalists celebrate with calls for respect of ethics.

The event, themed: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security”, served as a platform for introspection, advocacy, and renewed commitment to ethical journalism for journalists in Buea. 

In his opening remarks, CAMASEJ Buea Chapter President, Andrew Nsoseka, praised the growing membership of the chapter, which has expanded from just four committed members to over thirty, a testament to what is possible when people believe in a common vision.

Nsoseka acknowledged the unique challenges faced by journalists in Buea and the South West Region. 

“Practising journalism in Buea is not like practising anywhere else. We operate within a crisis-affected environment, where the risks are real and sometimes immediate. Many colleagues have faced danger simply for doing their jobs,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he encouraged all to remain brave in reporting the truth while staying caution to ensure safety. The recurring issue of financial hardships due to the sorry state of media landscape in Cameroon dominated discussions.

Journalists were during the event, encouraged to engage in other income generating activities to stay afloat financially.A panel discussion moderated by Nkengafac Eucharia featured Immanuela Mkong, Dr Henry Mekole, and Dr Munjah Vitalis. 

The panellists examined the theme through the lens of media laws, ethics, duties and responsibilities of the press. Discussions emphasised that press freedom must operate within a defined legal framework to avoid chaos. 

Key laws cited included the 2024 Data Protection Law, the 2014 Anti-Terrorism Law, the 1990 Press Freedom Law, provisions in the Constitution and Penal Code, as well as Cameroon’s international obligations. 

Panelists stressed that journalists must thoroughly master these laws to protect themselves while exercising their duties. Dr Henry Mekole urged journalists to move beyond entertainment and fully embrace their role as watchdogs of society. 

Dr Munjah Vitalis described communication as “the tool or vessel that sustains every political system in the world,” underscoring the power and responsibility that come with the profession.

Immanuela Mkong urged resistance to the pitfalls of the digital age, including the rush to publish unverified or graphic content for clicks and fame. 

“We see disturbing trends: graphic videos of violence, images of brutality, and sensational reporting that shocks but does not inform,” she regretted.

She highlighted the need for journalists to act as “guardians of society” by upholding ethics, protecting human dignity, and contribute to healing rather than harm.

Both speakers collectively called for a freer environment coupled with economic empowerment for journalists, arguing that true independence requires both legal protections and financial stability.

Speaking to the press at the end of the commemoration, Nsoseka reinforced the message of unity.

He said: “Alone, our voices may be weak. However, together, we can push for better working conditions, defend press freedom, and build a stronger, more resilient media community”.

He encouraged non-members to formally join CAMASEJ, describing the association as a platform for solidarity and collective action.

At the end, members took a commitment to journalism that amplifies truth, gives voice to the voiceless, and supports peace-building efforts in line with the global theme. 

The media professionals were joined in the commemoration by journalism students from the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication of the University of Buea and Catholic University Institute of Buea.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3783 of Friday May 08, 2026