Experts Urge African Radio To Prioritise Environment Journalism

The global community marks World Radio Day every February 13 with this year’s theme, “Radio and Climate Change,” emphasising the pivotal role radio plays in raising awareness of urgent environmental issues.

In light of this observance, a climatologist and Assistant Director of the African Climate Reporters (ACR) Piman Hoffman, has urged African media organisations to prioritise dedicated science and environmental journalists.

In a statement from Kaduna, Hoffman expressed concern about the lack of commitment from African media outlets to hire reporters with a focus on science, environment, and climate change.

He stressed the importance of 2025, a critical year for addressing climate change as the Paris Agreement calls for collective action from all sectors, including the media.

“It is essential for every media organisation in Africa to employ journalists trained in environmental reporting,” Hoffman said. Such a move would strengthen efforts by governments, environmental NGOs, and international organisations to educate the public about the urgency of combating global warming and environmental destruction.

Hoffman pointed to the dangers posed by the absence of environmental journalists in Africa, warning that the lack of specialised reporters puts biodiversity and ecosystems at risk.

“The absence of reporters focused on science and environmental issues endangers wildlife and our forests,” he stated.

He explained that environmental journalists are key to raising awareness on vital topics such as population growth, sustainability, energy conservation, and air pollution. They also highlight issues like deforestation, toxic waste accumulation, and habitat degradation.

“Every year, millions die from pollution, zoonotic diseases, flooding, and other environmental disasters—issues that often get overlooked due to the shortage of dedicated environmental journalists,” Hoffman lamented.

Noting the power of environmental journalism to inspire change, he emphasized how journalists can educate the public on their environmental impact and promote more sustainable behaviors.

“We are working to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle global warming, deforestation, and environmental degradation. This year’s World Radio Day is particularly important, with the focus on climate change,” he said.

Hoffman further highlighted the significance of radio as a medium for educating global audiences, particularly by amplifying local voices impacted by climate issues. He pointed out that listeners often possess valuable knowledge of climate change effects, such as pollution from industrial sites or food shortages resulting from environmental shifts, and their stories can inspire action from decision-makers and businesses.

Recognising the unique position of local radio stations to address community-specific environmental challenges, Hoffman called for more programs and interviews that address real-world problems and practical solutions.

To support these efforts, Hoffman urged media organisations to invest in the training and development of their staff, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and knowledge to effectively report on environmental matters.