GBARNGA — Talking Drum Studio (TDS) Liberia, in collaboration with the Population Media Center and with funding from Sweden, is hosting a two-day workshop on reflection, learning, and conflict-sensitive reporting in Gbarnga, Bong County.
The workshop, organized by the TDS Liberia Peace Center, aims to evaluate the impact of the PMC-TDS Liberia Radio Serial Drama and share project insights. Journalists from community radio stations across Liberia are participating, engaging in discussions about the drama’s role in peacebuilding and promoting social change.
The PMC-TDS Radio Serial Drama, titled Barnusietehdeh (“Let’s Do the Right Thing”), has aired on 35 radio stations nationwide since 2023. Using a multimedia entertainment-education approach, it addresses issues such as gender equality, conflict resolution, reconciliation, and good governance. Community members have widely praised the program for educating and engaging listeners on pressing societal issues.
Sharing Experiences and Insights
Workshop participants are expected to share their experiences, challenges, and successes in implementing the project. The event has drawn attendees from across Liberia, including representatives from local radio stations and key stakeholders.
Mary N. Toe, Project Officer for Barnusietehdeh at TDS Liberia, highlighted the successful implementation of two major initiatives: the Sida-funded Gender and Social Cohesion Project and the USAID-funded Liberia Media Activity. She emphasized that the workshop serves as a platform for dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation while enhancing the impact of the radio drama in fostering peace and sustainable development.
Madam Toe underscored the importance of reflecting on the project’s implementation process, particularly its broadcast components. The program has been instrumental in delivering key messages, fostering public dialogue, and encouraging behavioral change. However, challenges such as content distribution and maintaining production quality have presented hurdles.
The workshop offers a platform for partners, stakeholders, and donors to engage in open discussions about the project’s successes and challenges. Madam Toe stated that actionable lessons drawn from these discussions will enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of future initiatives.
Additionally, the event emphasizes capacity building for journalists, recognizing their vital role in shaping public discourse. Specialized training sessions in conflict-sensitive reporting aim to equip journalists and talk show hosts with the skills and knowledge necessary to responsibly report on sensitive issues, promote peace, and foster social cohesion within their communities.
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