Media stakeholders have called on Journalists in the Country to embrace conflict sensitive reports skills.
The stakeholders met Journalists on Tuesday during the opening of the two days training workshop that brough 30 journalists from different media houses together.
The training, organized by Association for Media Development in South Sudan AMDISS) with support from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) was aim at enhancing media professionals with knowledge on Conflict Sensitive Reporting, Peace Journalism, Countering Hate Speech, Mis/Disinformation, and Exploring AI Potential.
Director General for Information and Media Compliance at the Media Authority, Mr. Sapana Abuyi, called on the Journalists to tackled 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” Abuyi said
“Hate speech is really destroying our country that we need to deal with it, media is use for spreading peace” he added
He called on the Journalists to be extra careful as election approach adding that there will be more hate speeches and inflammatory remarks
Ayaa Irene, the Director of AMDISS called on the Journalists to report the truth as well focus on principle of do no harm.
“In conflict sensitive Reporting, we should know the importance of the ‘Truth’ and 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 provide 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 in Journalists to reflect the voices of the public in reporting adding that South Sudan is not all 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 Journalists for the efforts in informing the public and urged them to ensure that their reports promote peace rather than fuelling the conflict.