Kaduna media professionals have begun a five-day training on conflict-sensitive reporting, organised by the LIDA Network with support from GIZ under the PEACECORE II Project.
The initiative is designed to strengthen journalists’ capacity in conflict resolution and addressing livelihood challenges within the region.
The training places particular emphasis on tackling “Information Disorder and Hate Speech,” providing participants with strategies to identify and counter misinformation that threatens peace and security.
The central objective is to empower journalists to serve as proactive advocates for conflict resolution and social stability through responsible and conflict-sensitive reporting.
In her opening remarks, Head of the Project, Myriam Wedraogo underlined the pivotal influence of the media in shaping public discourse.
Wedraogo said; “Journalists play a critical role in shaping narratives, and their storytelling can either exacerbate tensions or promote reconciliation in fragile societies.”
She further outlined the training’s goal of equipping practitioners with practical skills in conflict-sensitive reporting, effective peace messaging, and countering misinformation.
Facilitator Silas Jonathan highlighted the risks posed by unchecked information flow.
“Information disorder is dangerous to peacebuilding,” he warned, urging journalists to prioritise truth, accuracy, and inclusivity in news reportage.
Jonathan praised participants’ engagement and stressed the importance of understanding how narratives influence society.
According to him, “just as malicious actors use digital tools to spread problems, the media can use them to counter negative forces and promote positivity.”
Jonathan also encouraged journalists to leverage digital resources such as Google Trends to shift narratives and combat falsehoods in real time.
The Communications Adviser for the project, Oladipo Olunshola provided an overview of the PEACECORE II initiative (2023–2027).
He explained that “its priority areas include conflict transformation, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability, with gender transformation approaches serving as a core foundation.”
The training represents a significant step towards fostering peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding by enhancing the role of the media in peacebuilding efforts in Kaduna and beyond.