Friday, September 22, 2006

Journalists at risk

The death of Jozi FM journalist Jabulani Mlangeni is a reminder of the constant risks some journalists are under. There are some who die because of being caught in a battle zone; others are targeted because of their opinion or investigations. Five hundred and eighty journalists have been killed for their work over the past 15 years in troubled areas like Iraq and Somalia. So if we can get pictures of the atrocities around the world in the comfort of our homes, it is thanks to those journalists who in time of crises have sleepless nights to provide round the clock updated news.

The BBC also had the bad luck of having some of its journalists or cameramen attacked or killed. It is always sad to hear a famous journalist being attacked as it was the case for BBC Frank Gardner who was the victim of a terrorist shooting that fortunately didn’t succeed in taking his life. When I see him in the news I admire his courage to keep his dedication to reporting despite this tragic incident. My sympathy also goes to BBC Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond who I wish to see on screen in perfect shape as soon as possible.

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