Participants pose for a pic at the opening of CENPA Workshop in Ebolowa
Newspaper publishers and selected journalists from across Cameroon are currently meeting in Ebolowa, South Region, for a three-day workshop focused on strengthening the role of the media in nation-building.
The workshop, held under the theme “Consolidating National Unity: The Role of the Media,” is taking place at the Bengo Hotel and brings together key actors in the media sector to reflect on responsible journalism, especially in critical times.
Ngah Christian, President of CENPA and CEO of The Guardian Post Newspaper
Opening the workshop, the President of the Cameroon English Language Newspaper Publishers' Association, Ngah Christian, appreciated publishers for promoting messages of national unity and avoiding irresponsible reporting.
He noted that the media has played a key role in managing the crisis in the North West and South West Regions over the past decade.
“It is thanks to the press that the situation in the North West and South West has been contained,” he said.
Ngah Christian also called on media practitioners to ensure responsible coverage of the upcoming municipal and legislative elections. He warned against reporting that could incite violence, recalling the unrest that followed the October 12 presidential elections.
At the same time, he reminded publishers not to abandon their role of holding those in power accountable, but to do so in a responsible and professional manner.
Madam Beko'o B'evina, Representative of the Minister of Communication
Officially opening the workshop, the South Regional Delegate of Communication, Beko'o B'evina Margarite, who represented the Minister of Communication, urged journalists to report based on local realities.
She cautioned against blindly copying Western media approaches and instead encouraged reporting that reflects Cameroon’s context and promotes unity.
“We must report in a way that consolidates national unity,” she said while also calling on journalists to help de-escalate tensions, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Her message was also echoed by the First Deputy City Mayor, who emphasized the need to improve the quality of journalism while strengthening press freedom in the country.
Participants at the workshop were engaged in several sessions aimed at improving media practice. One key session focused on the idea that the media can either make or mar society depending on how information is presented.
Cross section of participants
Publishers were trained on how to write stories and headlines that reduce tension rather than inflame situations. Examples of past headlines were analyzed, especially those considered provocative or likely to worsen crises, with guidance on how to improve them.
Another session focused on integrating national unity into news reporting. Journalists were encouraged to highlight stories that promote togetherness, understanding, and peaceful coexistence among Cameroonians.
The final session addressed how media houses can survive during difficult times. With declining newspaper sales, publishers were advised to explore alternative sources of income such as subscriptions and partnerships with corporations and government ministries. They were also reminded of the importance of treating their staff well, as this contributes to the overall success of media organizations.
This final session was preceded by a presentation on the Investment Promotion Agency. It's key mission and where it places Cameroon on the Investment market. After deliberating, the publishers accepted that it was time enough to partner with the structure so a firm specialized in the distribution of Newspapers in country is set-up.
Reactions
Ndiba William Itoe, Publisher of Cameroon Echoes Newspaper
The workshop is coming at a time when Cameroon is witnessing fragile peace following the incessant violence from Boko Haram attacks in the far North Region, the socio-political crisis morphed armed conflict in the NW/SW regions and post presidential election's cleavages which almost plunge the country in another difficult situation.
The different presenters drilled us on how the media can make or mar, how to report news of national interest, the choice of words which cannot escalate an already perilous situation.
This will take us to responsible journalism, though the press will still hold the government accountable in implementing policies and execution of projects.
Bakah Derick, Lead at Hilltopvoices Bamenda
Bakah Derick, extreme right
National unity and integration have long been recurring themes in political discourse. The decision by the Cameroon English Language Newspaper Publishers’ Association (CENPA) to step in and actively promote this agenda is a welcome and timely move. As noted by Kini Nsom, the media risks fuelling hate and deepening national disunity when it relays non-inclusive and divisive content. One key resolution I take forward from this engagement is a firm commitment to refrain from amplifying hateful or divisive narratives.
Boh Elvis, Yaounde City Reporter with My Media Prime Television
The discussions are timely. It is beautiful learning from experienced hands in the field, sharing ideas on how to move the profession forward. The topics are important and open our eyes on how to practice our profession in the context in which we find ourselves. The speakers have open our eyes on professional deligience, responsibility and living together. These are issues journalists must consider in their reporting. The ideas of experienced hands shared during this workshop will help me in the profession.
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Ndi Tsembom Elvis
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