Douala, Cameroon, recently hosted a pivotal two-day training workshop for journalists, focusing on investigative journalism. The event, organized by the Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) and sponsored by the US Embassy in Yaounde, is part of a series aimed at enhancing journalistic practices in the country.
Speaking during the two-day capacity building workshop that spanned May 6-7, Jude Viban, CAMASEJ National President said the workshop is part of the organisation’s drive to ensure professional growth of members and improve on the journalism profession as a whole.
“This workshop is designed to impart the necessary skills for our journalists to produce investigative stories that not only inform but also drive action and change,” said Viban.
Bamba Séne, Professional Associate for Public Diplomacy at the US Embassy in Yaoundé, said a strong and free press is essential cornerstone for a democratic society. In his remarks at the opening of the Douala workshop, the US Embassy official said the diplomatic institution’s support to training is a testimony to America’s commitment to promote a free strong press around the world.
“Investigative reporting is crucial as it brings important stories to the forefront, holds power to account, and highlights issues of public interest. It’s about shedding light on the stories that matter,” said Bamba Séne.
During the two days, some 35 journalists drawn from six of the country’s ten regions gained skills and techniques required for thorough investigative reporting. Participants engaged in sessions covering the basics of investigative reporting, data journalism, the use of open sources, and the art of crafting a focused investigative article. The training also delved into technology-assisted journalism and the development of compelling story ideas.
The Douala workshop was the first of two such trainings that the umbrella organization of English-speaking journalists in the country has scheduled. The second will hold in Ngaoundere in the Adamawa region for journalists from the four other regions of the country – East, Adamawa, North and Far North, next month.
To ensure the practical application of the skills learned, follow-up mechanisms have been established. According to the CAMASEJ National President, a pitching competition will be announced for journalists who would have completed the training workshop and 10 journalists with compelling pitches will receive grants to permit them pursue their investiagations.
“There will be some sort of a committee of editors that will select the story ideas. If they are good, CAMASEJ shall commission them as part of the sponsorship we shall get from the US Embassy,” Viban explained.
