The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) trained over 40 journalists drawn from various broadcast, print, and online media on countering misinformation, disinformation, and anti-democratic narratives across the region.
The two-day training, which aims to promote ethical journalism and information integrity and is a crucial step toward safeguarding democracy and ensuring regional stability, was organized by ECOWAS in partnership with the German development agency GIZ, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).
The participants were equipped with the necessary tools to confront these critical challenges as the ECOWAS Commission continues its efforts to strengthen democratic principles and promote peace.
The partnership between media practitioners and regional bodies will be essential in ensuring the region’s future stability and development.
Addressing the participants, H.E. Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the importance of modern technological tools for journalists in identifying and combating harmful narratives.
Touray, who was represented by Abdou Kolley, the Chief of Staff and Director of Cabinet in his office, stated that the training would empower journalists with practical skills to analyze the actors behind misleading information and develop strategies to counter them.
“Through this training initiative, we aim to equip journalists with the necessary tools to identify and counter anti-democratic narratives, combat disinformation, and uphold ethical journalism,” said Touray.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission also highlighted the importance of advanced fact-checking methodologies, open-source intelligence tools, and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance investigative journalism and strengthen the fight against human rights violations.
He urged the participants to leverage their new skills to foster media literacy, promoting responsible information sharing and collaboration among journalists, the ECOWAS Commission, and other stakeholders to bolster democracy, good governance, and sustainable development.
On his part, Mr. Matthias Dold, Political Counselor at the German Embassy in Abuja, shared the challenges of misinformation and disinformation that both West Africa and Europe face.
He underscored the potential dangers of these issues, particularly when they lead to discrimination, hate, or violence, and reiterated Germany’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS’s efforts in tackling these threats.
“The media plays a pivotal role in promoting peace and stability.
“Together, we can prevent the negative impacts of misinformation and ensure an open and responsible information sphere,” Dold said.
Dr. Kojo Impraim of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) also emphasized the critical role media plays in shaping public opinion and its increasing involvement in the spread of misinformation.
Impraim noted that the prevalence of election-related misinformation in the region has exacerbated the challenges to peace and democracy.
“The media must confront this issue head-on and become a responsible actor in promoting accurate, truthful reporting,” he said.
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