Gambiaj.com – (Fajara, The Gambia) – As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) under the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” the Women Journalists Association of The Gambia (WoJAG) has called for urgent action to address the persistent challenges faced by women in the Gambian media industry.

WoJAG highlighted concerns about gender inequality, low wages, and workplace harassment that continue to undermine the contributions of women journalists. Despite the increasing number of women graduating from journalism programs, they remain underrepresented in decision-making roles within newsrooms.

“Gaining an equitable and non-exploitative media space for women would not be an easy task,” said WoJAG Secretary General Banna Sabally. “It is an ongoing endeavor that requires collective effort to remove barriers and foster equal opportunities.”

A 2020 study by the Gambia Press Union (GPU) revealed that nearly 50% of women in media faced workplace discrimination, particularly in pay and promotions. WoJAG President Annette Camara reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to change, stating, “Equality is not a privilege, it is a right. Women in media are shaping nations, leading industries, and making history. We will not stop until opportunities and pay are equal.”

WoJAG has launched the ‘Accelerate Action’ campaign, urging media houses to ensure fair employment contracts and adequate pay for women journalists, appoint more women to editorial and management positions, and implement the GPU Sexual Harassment Policy to create a safer work environment.

The association called on media employers to uphold both local and international labor standards to ensure a more inclusive and equitable industry.