Female journalists in Northern Uganda have raised concerns over high rates of sexual harassment by male news sources and counterparts.
The journalists from different media houses noted that because of the harassment, several of their colleagues have quit journalism.
The journalists raised the concerns on Monday during a media dialogue organized by Speak FM, a Gulu based radio station affiliated to the Forum for Women in Democracy in commemoration of this year`s Women`s Day celebration. The event was held at the Northern Uganda Media Club (NUMEC).
Justine Muboka, Assistant News Editor Mega FM in Gulu said she has herself received love text messages, night phone calls and love proposals from male news sources.
Muboka disclosed that she has been receiving love texts, night calls and love proposals from male news sources. Muboka further said that female victims of sexual harassment have asked to be dropped from field work.
Willy Chowoo, News Editor at Choice FM said he has also received complaints from female reporters about sexual harassment from male colleagues.
Jane Angom Mujoma, the Station Manager Speak FM and a veteran journalist who chaired the meeting acknowledged the complaints saying that female journalists suffer from stereotypes, cultural violence, and unequal opportunities. The dialogue was meant to raise issues affecting female journalists, Angom said.