In a significant gathering in Accra, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfour, has called on the leadership of the African Peace and Security Association (APSA) to introduce capacity-building programs for journalists focused on security and conflict resolution.
During the 20th anniversary celebration of the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC), themed ‘Media’s Role in Promoting APSA as Framework for Peacebuilding’, Dwumfour emphasized the need for journalists to have a comprehensive understanding of security issues and conflict dynamics. This, he argued, would enable them to provide more accurate and empathetic reporting that reflects the local context, culture, and history.
Dwumfour pointed out that Western media often portray African conflicts in a negative and oversimplified manner due to a lack of understanding, stereotypes, biases, and agenda settings. This has contributed to a distorted image of the continent. “It is crucial for APSA to provide training and enhance the capacity of journalists in the areas of security, conflict resolution, and diplomacy,” he remarked. “Journalists are expected to have a comprehensive understanding to report accurately.”
The GJA President stressed that well-trained African journalists could play a significant role in reshaping the narrative about Africa, moving away from the predominant focus on conflict and poverty towards a more nuanced and precise representation of the continent’s complexities and achievements. He added that proficient African journalists could also contribute to promoting peace and security by delivering accurate and responsible reporting, thereby helping to prevent conflicts and foster understanding.
The call for capacity-building programs is seen as a crucial step in empowering African journalists to provide local perspectives and address the nuances often absent in Western media coverage. By equipping journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge, APSA can help ensure that African stories are told by Africans, reflecting the true realities of the continent.
This initiative aligns with AU-ECOSOCC’s broader mission to promote peace, security, and development across Africa, recognizing the pivotal role that the media plays in shaping public perception and fostering informed dialogue. As the AU-ECOSOCC celebrates its 20th anniversary, the emphasis on media’s role in peacebuilding underscores the importance of responsible journalism in achieving sustainable peace and security on the continent.
By Jeorge Wilson Kingson || Ghananewsonline.com.gh