By Yiep Joseph
Media stakeholders have called on journalists in the country to embrace conflict-sensitive reporting skills.
The call made the remarks on Tuesday during opening of a two-day training workshop that brought 30 journalists from different media houses together.
The training, organized by the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) with support from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), aimed at enhancing media professionals with knowledge on Conflict Sensitive Reporting, Peace Journalism, Countering Hate Speech, Mis/Disinformation, and Exploring AI Potential.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Sapana Abui, Director General for Information and Media Compliance at the Media Authority, called on journalists to tackle hate speech, citing that the current media has been dominated by mis/disinformation.
“Hate speech is dangerous. Media is trusted to inform the public and MUST avoid hate speech,” Abui said.
“Hate speech is really destroying our country, and we need to deal with it. Media is used for spreading peace,” he added.
He called on the journalists to be extra careful as elections approach, adding that there will be more hate speech and inflammatory remarks.
“Election time will be the worst time for hate speech and inflammatory remarks, so be careful,” he said.
Ayaa Irene, the Director of AMDISS, called on journalists to report the truth and also focus on the principle of “do no harm.”
“In conflict-sensitive reporting, we should know the importance of the ‘Truth.’ Today, I want to tell you, the journalists, to seek the Truth and report it without fear or favor because it is only the truth that sets you free, and it will help the people of South Sudan to make an informed decision,” Irene said.
“Peace Journalism goes beyond sensational reporting and provides a critical understanding of complex conflicts, including bringing the voices of marginalized groups. Therefore, your role as a journalist is to investigate the issues and also go down to the people at the grassroots. Report what they say and bring their voices to the spotlight,” she added.
She called on journalists to reflect the voices of the public in reporting, adding that South Sudan is not just about the leaders but a combination of both the leaders and the citizens.
“So, the citizens also need to be heard, and their voices need to be brought to the media,” she said.
She appreciated the journalists for their efforts in informing the public and urged them to ensure that their reports promote peace rather than fueling conflict.