Mental health in the workplace remains a critical issue that demands more attention.

This weekend, on August 3rd, 2024, journalists in Nakuru were invited to participate in the Multichoice 2024/25 preseason tournament.

After covering a series of tense stories over the last few months, this is an opportunity to unwind and keep their mental wellness in check while staying physically fit, according to their coach, Suleiman Mbatiah.

Award winning photographer Suleiman Mbatiah during an interview on August 3, 2024.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

Mbatiah notes that the journalists have recently covered a series of traumatic events, from the Maai Mahiu tragedy to nationwide protests to individual assignments that could be equally distressing. This, he says, can take a significant toll on journalists' mental health if not properly addressed.

“As journalists, we rarely meet away from our official duties. Our profession also often exposes us to the dark side of human experiences,” Mbatiah explains. “While it's crucial to report on these stories, it's equally important to find constructive ways to process what we've seen.”

He says getting social in the field allows them to open up and break barriers in addressing issues of mental health.

“This tournament, along with others we've participated in previously, provides that much-needed outlet. It allows for socialization, encourages introverts to open up, and gives journalists a chance to resolve their differences through a friendly competition and fun,” Mbatiah states.

He unfortunately points out that the organizations they represent rarely offer debriefing or counselling sessions after such experiences and as such, journalists have to take it upon themselves to do this.

“After two decades in the media industry, I only got my first real post-traumatic counselling last year and it was from the Red Cross. This highlights the significant gap we need to address in supporting the mental wellness of journalists who are on the frontline covering traumatic incidents,” he stresses.

Sofia Mohamed, a journalist in Nakuru, who is part of the team says engaging in the football game has tremendously changed her life, despite just being three female journalists on the team.

Sofia Mohamed, a journalist in Nakuru.

Photo credit: COURTESY

“I’ve been on the frontline covering the protests which have left me mentally and physically tired. The running up and down helped me release all the tense feelings I had accumulated during this period,” says Sofia.

She notes that since the inception of the team a little over a year ago, she has improved her relationship with her colleagues.

Mbatiah says they are in the process of introducing other sports and activities to encourage participation from all journalists, regardless of gender or athletic preference.

“We're working to diversify our offerings to ensure everyone can find an activity they enjoy,” Mbatiah explains. “While football has been popular, we recognize the need for more inclusive options. We encourage all journalists to join in, whether it's playing, cheering, or helping organize. The goal is to help everyone relax and connect with colleagues.”

While the primary goal was to provide a mental health outlet, the journalists also aimed to perform well in the tournament.

Mbatiah explains, “Although we met some challenges early on, we strategized for a win, hoping to reach the quarter-finals.”

Nakuru journalists celebrate a goal against Wababa FC during the friendly match on August 3, 2024.

Photo credit: LELETI JASSOR/MTAA WANGU

With six matches between the two teams fielded by the journalists, there was a celebratory moment after Nakuru Scribes scored 1-0 against Wababa FC in what would seem to take the team to the quarter-finals but there was a change of plans from the organizing committee.

Moving forward, Mbatiah says their overall goal is to maintain positive mental health among journalists as they focus on improving their teamwork and tactics.

Nakuru journalists turn to football as a fun stress reliever

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Leleti Jassor