The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), through its fact-checking and verification programme, DUBAWAA, yesterday began a training workshop for Gambian journalists, bloggers among others on combating misinformation and disinformation ahead of the country’s elections in December.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) with support from the European Union (EU) under the Electoral Violence, Monitoring, Analysis and Mitigation (E-MAM) programme, seeks to equip participants with the skills to identify misleading claims, verify information and promote responsible reporting during the electoral process.
Roselena Ahiable, the Project Manager of DUBAWAA West Africa, said the training was part of broader efforts to strengthen the role of the media in promoting electoral integrity and safeguarding democratic processes in The Gambia.
The project manager also highlighted CJID’s work in journalism education, media freedom, gender, artificial intelligence and digital technology, including initiatives to protect journalists and promote a safer working environment for media practitioners.
She identified DUBAWAA as one of CJID’s flagship initiatives, dedicated to promoting a culture of truth and verification in public discourse and journalism across West Africa.
She urged participants to take the training seriously, describing journalists, bloggers and other information professionals as being on the front line in the fight against misinformation.
Pablo Padin Perez, from the European Union, said as the country approaches the December elections, the contribution of well-trained, independent and responsible media professionals will be particularly important.
“I encourage you to make the most of this workshop, to share your experiences openly and to think about how you can apply what you learn in your own work.”
Salama Njie, National Network Coordinator WANEP- The Gambia, expressed hope that over the next two days, the 25 participants will be equipped with practical skills, tools, and digital verification techniques.
