Published: October 31, 2024
MONROVIA — The Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), in collaboration with the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NAFAA), has embarked on a three-day specialized journalism training on fisheries reporting. The training, which began on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, is being held at the NAFAA Technical Building located on the Coast Guard Base at Mesurado Pier and hosts over 20 journalists.
According to Ruth Gbatoe, Communications Officer of the Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project, the project has developed a communication strategy and a specialized training manual aimed at advancing media literacy and ethical journalism in fisheries reporting, funded by the World Bank.
“The goal is to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold high standards of professionalism in their coverage of fisheries issues,” she stated. “This training will underscore the media’s role in delivering balanced, ethical reporting on Liberia’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors,” she added.
Gbatoe noted that journalists undergoing this specialized training will acquire the tools and frameworks needed for responsible reporting, with a particular focus on LSMFP’s initiatives. She emphasized that the program will also serve as a collaborative forum, allowing journalists to share ideas, establish a media network, and deepen their commitment to highlighting the importance of sustainable fisheries practices.
The training will help participating journalists to investigate and streamline research processes to obtain relevant insights. Participants will be guided through LSMFP’s Media Training Manual by experienced trainers, covering essential lessons. Key topics include “Global Trends in Fisheries and Aquaculture Production,” “Challenges, Opportunities, and Sustainability in Fisheries,” “Combatting Misinformation and Fake News with Fact-Checking and Digital Literacy,” “Climate Change Impacts on Coastal Communities and Fisheries,” and “The Role of Journalism in Promoting Sustainable Fisheries: Policy, Resource Protection, and Community Empowerment.” Additionally, the training will focus on “Leveraging Digital Tools for Investigative and Fisheries Reporting.”
Gbatoe highlighted that the specialized journalism training aims to rekindle media interest in sustainable fisheries management, raise awareness of the LSMFP, promote growth in the aquaculture sector, and advocate for environmental and social strategies essential for sustainable fishing practices.
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