Rwandan journalists yesterday called for the enforcement of the recently gazetted media related laws. They were speaking in Kigali as the media fraternity marked  the  World Press Freedom Day.The three media related laws include access to information law designed to access information to the public.The global theme for the day was: Safe to Speak: Securing Freedom of Expression in All Media.At the event, also attended by Justice Minister Tharcisse Karugarama, journalists called on government to equitably give adverts to media houses as a way of strengthening media economic development.Journalists believe poverty in the sector influences some publishing or broadcasting houses to resort to biased reporting which violates professional ethics.However, responding to questions from the participants, Karugarama advised scribes to devise other ways of generating income instead of pointing fingers at the government , among others. "It’s important for the media to find ways of surviving and avoid being influenced by other people; why don’t you look at the problems and challenges you’re facing instead of pointing fingers at others? This will not be a solution,” Karugarama stated. "If you want to use media as a source of income then you’re in trouble. The necessary legal framework is in place to enhance press freedom. Desist from being compromised.”The Chief Executive Officer [CEO] of Rwanda Governance Board Prof. Anastase Shyaka urged journalists to exercise their profession objectively.He added that the promulgation of the new media related laws was a clear testimony of government’s commitment to promoting independence of the media and ease access to information.Self regulation "Media reforms is an essential component of good governance and preconditions for durable economic, social and political development,” Local Government Minister, James Musoni, whose ministry the media falls under said in a statement on the eve of the World Press Freedom Day.  Key elements of the new media law include the recognition of self regulation with article 4 providing for Media Self Regulatory body which will regulate the conduct of journalists and establish professional standards. Article 15 empowers the same entity to deal with violation of journalists’ rights.

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Journalists speak out on media reformsViolette Ufitenemayumbe Radio HugukaThere is a need to sensitise the public about the media reforms and how to provide information. I am pained when I contact a minister and I am told to contact the assistant to fix an official appointment. Clare Clancy, Rwanda News AgencyJournalism is the same worldwide. I have not faced challenges with accessing information. I believe enacting Access to Information Act is significant news in any society.Faustine Nkurunziza, Igihe.comAccess to information has been a thorny issue. However with the new laws I think it will help us since sources will be obliged to provide information and I hope it will ease our business.Amina Ingabire,Radio RwandaThey are good laws compared to what we had previously. The big challenge that remains is enforcing them but I think this is the right time to exercise our professionalism.Rubens Mukunzi, Oasis GazetteThere is no doubt the media reforms will enhance media professionalism.  I hope the media self regulation body will provide a clear roadmap to regulate ourselves.