The sickening thud of a baton against the skull of veteran Nation Media Group photojournalist Chris Omollo at Dandora Stadium recently wasn’t just an assault on an individual; it was an attack on the very fabric of Kenyan sports.
It was therefore not surprising when the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK)’s threatened a blackout on Kenya Premier League (KPL) matches.
This should not be treated as an act of aggression, but rather a desperate plea for the recognition of journalists as essential partners, not enemies, in the development of our sports.
For far too long, the vital role of sports journalists has been undervalued, their safety jeopardised in environments where they should be welcomed as chroniclers and promoters of athletic prowess.
The scribes who brave chaotic match days, navigate congested entrances (or in Omollo’s case, a designated separate one that still led to violence), and tirelessly document the highs and lows of our teams and athletes, are not mere spectators. They are the storytellers who bring the action to life for millions, the narrators who build fan bases, and the critical eyes that hold our sporting institutions accountable.
Consider the ripple effect of journalistic work. Through their reports and photographs, they elevate local talent, transforming promising individuals into national heroes and international prospects.
They provide the crucial brand visibility that attracts sponsors, fuelling the financial engine of our sports leagues and enabling investment in infrastructure and player development.
The coverage provided extends beyond the pitch, highlighting the human stories behind the victories and defeats, fostering a deeper connection between athletes and their supporters. Sports scribes are, in essence, the unpaid marketing and public relations arms of Kenyan sports.
We should not treat them with hostility, subject them to any form of violence, as it actively undermines this symbiotic relationship.
An assault on a journalist is an assault on the free flow of information, a silencing of the voices that amplify the achievements of our athletes and the passion of our fans.
When journalists fear for their safety, the quality and reach of sports coverage inevitably suffer.
Empty press boxes translate to empty spaces in the public consciousness, dimming the spotlight on the very sports that these acts of aggression purport to protect.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF)‘s Communications Officer Jeff Kinyanjui has since offered an apology. While this is a welcome first step, words alone are insufficient. SJAK has demanded for concrete assurances of safety and disciplinary action going forward. These ought to be fundamental prerequisites for journalists to carry out their duties without fear.
The federation, in collaboration with the National Police Service and stadium management, must implement tangible measures to guarantee the security of journalists at all sporting events. This includes clear protocols for media access, adequate security personnel trained to respect the role of the press, and swift accountability for any acts of violence against members of the media.
Veteran journalist Mutwiri Mutuota’s call for a boycott of volatile stadiums, rather than a blanket blackout, highlights the urgency of addressing specific hotspots of violence.
His words resonate with the lived experiences of many journalists who have faced intimidation and aggression in the line of duty. It is imperative that FKF and relevant authorities identify these problematic venues and take decisive action to ensure they become safe working environments for the press.
The ball, as rightly stated, is now in the FKF's court. Their response to this crisis will not only determine the immediate future of sports journalism in Kenya but will also send a powerful message about their commitment to fostering a healthy and transparent sporting ecosystem.
Allowing journalists to do their jobs safely and without fear is not an act of charity—it is a strategic investment in the growth and visibility of Kenyan sports. We are not the enemy, we are indispensable partners in the collective pursuit of athletic excellence and national pride.
