Participants will receive practical training on detecting misinformation networks, conflict-sensitive reporting, and tools to reinforce democratic governance and peace in West Africa.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a two-day training workshop for journalists in Sierra Leone to enhance information integrity and counter the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation across the region.
Organized in collaboration with the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and supported by the Government of Germany, the workshop seeks to promote Media and Information Literacy (MIL).
Participants will receive practical training on detecting misinformation networks, conflict-sensitive reporting, and tools to reinforce democratic governance and peace in West Africa.
Declaring the workshop open on behalf of ECOWAS President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Sierra Leone, Ambassador John Azumah, said the initiative reflects ECOWAS’ commitment to protecting the region’s information space.
“This training reflects ECOWAS’ determination, alongside its partners, to support Member States and media professionals in promoting information integrity and combating the scourge of false and harmful narratives across West Africa,” Ambassador Azumah stated.
He stressed that credible journalism is central to democratic stability, peace, and social cohesion, urging journalists to embrace responsible reporting as a safeguard against the rising tide of disinformation.
The workshop builds on ECOWAS’ broader regional efforts to strengthen democratic values, improve media resilience, and empower citizens to make informed decisions in an increasingly complex information environment.
