By: Mohamed Sahr
Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, with funds from the European Union, concluded Green Journalism Training in Kenema on Friday, November 1st, 2024, aimed at empowering journalists to lead environmental change in Sierra Leone.
The program ensures that journalists are equipped with the skills to report effectively on environmental issues, raising public awareness and inspiring action on Sierra Leone’s pressing environmental challenges.
Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said the in-depth five-day training covered essential topics, including environmental regulations, institutional mandates, sustainable development, climate change, and multimedia storytelling. Journalists also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through field visits to Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Barri Chiefdom in Puhejun District and Kambui Hills Forest Reserve in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District where they observed real-world environmental management challenges.
“Environmental journalism is crucial in addressing the pressing issues facing Sierra Leone and the world,” he said
The SLAJ President noted that training not only equips journalists with the skills they need to tell these important stories but also empowers them to advocate for sustainable environmental management and change in their communities.
He added that participants received expert guidance on crafting impactful stories that resonate with local audiences, emphasizing the importance of making global issues like climate change and deforestation relevant to their communities.
Nasrella mentioned that the training also focused on multimedia skills, equipping journalists with data presentation and analysis software and techniques for leveraging video, audio, and social media for more effective audience engagement.
A key highlight of the program was the networking and collaboration fostered among journalists, laying the foundation for a robust network of environmental reporters in Sierra Leone.
John C. Abu-Kpawoh, Rural Development and Infrastructure Section of the European Union said they are building a network of environmentally conscious journalists who will continue to support each other and promote green reporting long after this training. “Our goal is to create lasting impacts, and we believe these journalists will help lead the way.”
Jacek Jankowsk, EU Ambassador to Sierra Leone, said the European Union commits to providing significant funding to support green transition efforts, notably related to 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 also extends its appreciation to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, SLAJ, the Independent Media Commission of Sierra Leone, local stakeholders, and other partners for their invaluable expertise during the week-long training.
Kpawoh alluded to the launch of a fellowship program to motivate journalists to report environmental issues and the formation of a Network of Environmental Journalists. With ongoing support from SLAJ and IMdev, they are poised to drive a powerful movement for sustainable development through journalism, fostering greater environmental awareness and accountability across Sierra Leone.
He said the training comes particularly timely because of the Sierra Leone Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, which will hold a National Dialogue starting on Monday, 4 November, launched by President Julius Maada Bio. “The EU is also strongly supporting the dialogue, which will require media to relay its content and messages for its success,” he added.