USAID State2State Organises conflicts sensitivity training for media practitioners in A'Ibom

 

By Freshgist

The United States Agency for International Development(USAID) state2state project recently organised  a three days training on conflicts sensitivity for government spokespersons, journalists and other participants in Akwa ibom state.

The state team lead- State accountability, transparency and effective state to state Activity for Akwa Ibom, Mr Borve Paago- Imabel, during a three days training workshop organized by the Agency in Uyo recently disclosed that the training  was aimed at empowering journalist with basic practical tools when reporting conflicts.

"I urged all participants especially you, the government spoke persons and all newsmen to focus on the training as it will empower you with practical tools to report conflict professionally without fueling the flames of conflicts.

" When reporting conflict ensure the use of "Do no harm" approach and principles and information management, as this will promote peace and unity in our country and entire world". Imabel said

He added that the Agency will always worked with state government to promote good governance and accountability in the state.

Also speaking, one of the facilitator, A Conflict specialist, Mr Cosmos Dinee said the training was also meant to enhanced the understanding of participants on the concept of conflicts, gender and social inclusion.

 According to him, " the training will enhanced the understanding of participants especially on how to report conflicts, gender and social inclusion, it will also deepen the understanding of participants on the dual role of journalist in party settings". Dinee said 

He maintained that every conflict, if well handled can bring positive or quality perspective added that applying the "Do no harm" principles in reporting conflict will curtail the spread of violence in the country especially in this political time.

On his part, The Communications Specialist, Mr Obinna Chukwuezie told newsmen to avoid writing stories that will trigger conflicts cautioning that they should always look out to the tensed environment and consequences that will be generated internationally.

"Journalist, information officers, participants please avoid using words that will trigger conflicts while reporting.

Before you publish any report, analyse and fully understand possible effects of the planed story, also reflect on completion of the story.

"Always look forward to words that will maximize the positive impacts rather than the negative ones, consider the "Do no harm" approach when writing any piece of work.

"Communicate to sustained peace, provide clarity, cohesion, understanding and be proactive to manage all information". He said