SECTOR 4

“One time I was stoned at a rally and had to pay for my own treatment.”
“I had a laptop snatched while working and I had to pay for a replacement.”
Salaries differ in range and journalists working in the broadcast sector are paid
poorly.
Salaries in print media start at 2,500 Maloti (approximately US$300) to 10,000
Maloti (approximately US$1,190) a month. Journalists have to negotiate their
own worth.
At Radio TKFM there are no salaries, instead staff get commission from the
advertising they source.
The only places where there are perks are at media organisations run or owned
by the state.
Working conditions are tough and people are expected to work long hours with
minimal support from the media house with communication costs, or transport
or accommodation for stories out of Maseru.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

1.6 (2010 = 2.4; 2008 = n/a; 2006 = n/a)

4.9 Media professionals have access to training facilitates offering formal qualification programmes as well
as opportunities to upgrade skills.
The Institute of Extra Mural Studies (IEMS) of the National University of Lesotho
gives special consideration to people who are working in the media even if
they do not meet the entry requirements. The IEMS offers a Diploma in Mass
Communication and a Degree in Journalism in Media.

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2012

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