A workshop organized by KUJ and IFJ brought together 18 journalists in Kenya to strengthen their skills in climate change and environmental reporting. The event highlighted the media’s critical role in addressing climate issues and the challenges journalists face in obtaining reliable information. Key discussions focused on effective storytelling, cultural sensitivities, and the necessity for transparency in climate finance.
A recent workshop hosted by the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) aimed to enhance the skills of 18 journalists from various media outlets in Kenya regarding climate change and environmental reporting. KUJ Secretary General Eric Charles Oduor emphasized the imperative role of the media in addressing climate change, stating it is the most significant story of our time. He highlighted Africa’s vulnerability to climate change and criticized the media’s insufficient coverage of its impacts and the associated mitigation strategies. During the workshop, IFJ Africa Office Director Pa Louis Thomasi acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by journalists in Africa when reporting on climate change. He noted the scarcity of reliable data and the reluctance of governments to share crucial information, which hampers accurate media reporting. The workshop ultimately aimed to equip journalists with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively communicate the urgency of climate issues, especially in communities heavily impacted by climate change. Lead trainer Marvel Powerson stressed the necessity of climate journalism to counter misinformation by utilizing credible sources and fact-checking. She urged journalists to understand the cultural contexts of affected communities and to engage directly with these populations to accurately convey their experiences. Furthermore, she called for heightened scrutiny of climate finance to ensure transparency and governmental accountability. The workshop covered various themes, including the media’s pivotal role in climate action and emerging trends in climate journalism.
The intersection of journalism and climate change reporting is critical, especially in regions like Africa, which are disproportionately affected by climate crises. Despite this need, African media often under-reports on such issues, leading to a lack of awareness and urgency in addressing the challenges faced by local communities. Training initiatives like those organized by KUJ and IFJ aim to bridge knowledge gaps and empower journalists to deliver impactful narratives that highlight both the challenges and the efforts toward climate resilience and adaptation.
The KUJ and IFJ workshop underscored the essential role of journalists in tackling climate change narratives within Africa. By enhancing their reporting skills and understanding of local contexts, journalists can better inform their communities about climate impacts and necessary responses. This initiative not only aims to improve reporting standards but also encourages journalists to push for greater access to information and accountability from governments.
Original Source: www.ifj.org
