Kenyan sports journalists under the umbrella of Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) today cushioned their struggling colleagues during this covid-19 period.
Just like other struggling entities, thousands of media workers around the world have either been furloughed, lost their jobs or had their salaries reduced.
As the Kenya government announced a stimulus package for various sectors that included selected athletes, there has been no direct support for the struggling media industry.
Journalists and staff working for five leading media groups in the country have had their pay slashed by up to 50% due to the coronavirus pandemic.
SJAK decided to come forward and cushion some of their members and colleagues with food and essential items donation.
In partnership with the Media Council of Kenya, Fidelity Insurance and fellow sports journalists from around the world, SJAK raised Ksh. 320, 000 [$3200] to purchase various foodstuffs for 50 of their colleagues who are most in need during this period.
SJAK president Chris Mbaisi who spearheaded the initiative on a day that is recognized by journalists and athletes across the world said it was important to spread positivity and share the Olympic values during this difficult period.
“It’s our small way of standing with our colleagues during this difficult period as we hope that things ease up soon and sports return after the lockdown and safe containment of the virus countrywide.”
Mbaisi, who is also the Vice President of AIPS Africa noted that sports news correspondents, photographers’ freelancers have been hard hit by the lockdown triggered by the pandemic.
Olympic Day commemorates the birth of the modern-day Olympic Games.