By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu, Bo City
Selected journalists from Sierra Leone’s Southern Region have strengthened their skills in conflict-sensitive reporting and accountable governance during a one-day capacity-building training organized by Talking Drum Studio Sierra Leone in partnership with Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Independent Radio Network (IRN), and International IDEA.
The training, held at J and E Resort in Bo City, is funded by the European Union. It aims to strengthen citizen engagement with the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations while promoting responsible journalism that fosters peace and national development.
During the opening session, Tommy Macarthy, Head of Programs at Talking Drum Studio Sierra Leone and Project Officer for the Sierra Leone Democracy Strengthening Programme, emphasized the importance of equipping journalists with practical tools to hold government institutions and duty bearers accountable.
“This training provides journalists with advocacy skills and practical methodologies in three core areas: understanding key tripartite recommendations, practicing conflict-sensitive reporting, and adopting a common ground approach to accountable governance,” Macarthy said.
He highlighted Recommendations 19, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 50, 72, and 78 as priority areas for media focus. According to him, Recommendation 30 calls for the Sierra Leone Police to conduct training needs assessments and build capacity to prevent violence. Recommendation 32 requires the Political Parties Regulation Commission to enforce Section 9 of the Political Parties Code of Conduct, preventing political parties from raising militias or sponsoring violence.
Macarthy noted that journalists are critical actors in national development. “The training also provides a platform for media professionals to create content that informs citizens without provoking conflict,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of SLAJ, Vice President Richard Lahai Ngevao urged participants to embrace the knowledge gained, serve as ambassadors of responsible journalism, and share the training insights with colleagues. He cautioned journalists against spreading false or inflammatory information and encouraged them to contribute meaningfully to national peace and development.
Augustine Sheku, Regional State Counsel for the South, reinforced the call for objectivity and professionalism in reporting. He warned that Sierra Leone risks political tension if journalists fail to exercise caution, citing Rwanda as a historical example where irresponsible media broadcasts contributed to national unrest.
The training featured presentations, group discussions, and guidance on referral pathways. Discussions focused on the Tripartite Committee’s recommendations, conflict-sensitive reporting, accountable governance, and the common ground approach.
Participants concluded the session equipped with practical tools to enhance media reporting and strengthen citizen engagement in governance helping to ensure accountability and promote peace across the Southern Region.