• NKURIKIYIMANA Modeste

The main objective of the study was to examine the root causes of bribery among Rwandan journalists, focusing on members of the Association Rwandaise des Journalistes between 2019 and 2022. In light of this general objective, the study undertaken was guided by three clear-cut specific objectives: a) to identify the root causes of bribery amongst Rwandan journalists who are members of ARJ, b) to assess the major forms of bribery practiced among ARJ journalists, and c) to evaluate the impacts of bribery in the journalism profession within the context of Rwanda. This study used a mixed-methods research design, both quantitative and qualitative, to collect and analyze data. It gathered primary data from respondents and compiled data from existing databases for an in-depth comprehension of the phenomenon of bribery. The target population consisted of 1,031 journalists; from this number, the required sample of 91 respondents was derived using Taro Yamane's formula according to Nwankwo (2006). From the first objective, the results revealed that poor payment for journalists amongst Rwandan media outlets (29.68%) is the major root cause of bribery amongst Rwandan journalists. On the forms of bribery, the study found that journalists or media receive gifts and freebies from sources to run stories at 27.47%, followed by receiving brown envelopes containing money to influence story angles at 24.19%. Regarding the consequences, 24.17% stated that bribery compels them to write and publish public relations stories, hence compromising objectivity and professional ethics. Based on the findings, it was concluded that low remunerations and poor working conditions were the leading causes of bribery amongst Rwandan journalists. Addressing these through appropriate pay structures, strengthened ethical standards, and legal mechanisms is, therefore, a necessity for professionalism and restoration of public trust in Rwanda's media fraternity.

Root Causes, Bribery, Journalists and Perspective

"The Root Causes of Bribery among Rwandan Journalists. A case of Association Rwandaise des Journalistes Perspectives (2022).", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no.f521-f536, November-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511582.pdf

"The Root Causes of Bribery among Rwandan Journalists. A case of Association Rwandaise des Journalistes Perspectives (2022).", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 11, page no. ppf521-f536, November-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2511582.pdf