The European Union, in partnership with the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), has on 1 November, 2024 successfully concluded a landmark Green Journalism Training program aimed at empowering journalists to lead environmental change in Sierra Leone.
Twenty-five journalists from media outlets nationwide participated in this intensive training, facilitated by Initiatives for Media Development (IMdev) and SLAJ with funding from the European Union. The program equipped journalists with essential skills to report on environmental issues, raising public awareness and inspiring action on pressing environmental challenges.
“This program aims to equip journalists with the skills to report effectively on environmental issues,” the press release stated, “raising public awareness and inspiring action on Sierra Leone’s pressing environmental challenges.”
Over five days, journalists delved into key topics, including environmental regulations, sustainable development, climate change, and multimedia storytelling. Field visits to Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Barri Chiefdom, Puhejun District, and Kambui Hills Forest Reserve in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, offered participants a firsthand look at environmental management issues.
“Environmental journalism is crucial in addressing the pressing issues facing Sierra Leone and the world,” said SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla. “This training not only equips journalists with the skills they need to tell these important stories but also empowers them to be advocates for sustainable environmental management and change in their communities.”
The program placed a strong emphasis on multimedia skills, teaching journalists software tools for data presentation, video production, and social media engagement to reach wider audiences effectively.
A highlight of the training was the collaboration fostered among participants, building a network of environmentally conscious journalists ready to promote green reporting across the country. “We are building a network of journalists who will continue to support each other and promote green reporting long after this training,” said John C. Abu-Kpawoh of the European Union’s Rural Development and Infrastructure Section. “Our goal is to create lasting impacts, and we believe these journalists will help lead the way.”
Following the training, a fellowship program was launched to encourage environmental reporting, alongside the formation of a Network of Environmental Journalists. With ongoing support from SLAJ and IMdev, this network aims to drive sustainable development through journalism, fostering greater environmental awareness and accountability.
The training coincides with the Sierra Leone Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, which begins with a National Dialogue on Monday, November 4, led by President Julius Maada Bio. The European Union will support the dialogue, with the media playing a crucial role in conveying its message for broader public engagement.
EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Jacek Jankowski, remarked, “The European Union commits to providing significant funding to support green transition efforts, notably in environmental protection, climate change mitigation and adaptation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture through a wide range of ongoing projects in Sierra Leone.”
The European Union extended its appreciation to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, SLAJ, the Independent Media Commission of Sierra Leone, and other partners for their invaluable expertise and contributions to the training program.
