Journalism in Rwanda cannot be understood without consideration for the 1994 genocide in which the media played a crucial role in spreading hate propaganda. This experience affects Rwandan people’s relationship with media and influences everything from legislation to self-censorship among journalists, as well as public skepticism towards the media.

The value of a professional media for the country’s development is increasingly recognised by media stakeholders, development actors and the Rwandan government. The transformation of the former state broadcaster ORINFOR into a public broadcaster (RBA) and the liberalisation of media laws in 2013 are some key developments in this direction. There is still a long road ahead to a free media. However, there is a momentum to build on reiterated not least by a strong call from Rwandan journalists themselves.

Fojo’s work in Rwanda began in 2015 through a collaboration with the School of Journalism (SJC) at University of Rwanda. This led to a modernised curriculum with an increased emphasis on practical journalism skills. As part of the project, experienced journalists from Rwanda, Sweden and East Africa came to teach at the university. The project also built closer ties between the journalism school and the media industry and led to stronger academic connections with other universities in the region.