Media Training in Wau on Conflict-Sensitive Reporting to Combat Hate Speech and Mis/Disinformation to Promote Peace
The Media Authority, in collaboration with Journalists
for Human Rights (JHR) and with support from Global Affairs Canada,
successfully conducted a two-day workshop on Conflict-Sensitive Reporting,
Advancing Press Freedom, and Combating Mis/Disinformation and Hate Speech in
Wau, Western Bahr el Ghazal State.
The workshop was held on 22-23 November, 2025, at the Universal Gap Hotel. The workshop brought together 120 participants drawn from the state Ministry of Information, officials from Wau Municipality, State and Local government officials, journalists, the security sector, station managers Civil Society Organizations, faith-based institutions, and representatives of Person With Disabilities.
The Media Authority has consistently conducted training and workshops since its establishment in 2016, aimed at streamlining media operations in line with the Media Authority Act, 2013. These initiatives have focused on shaping positive mindsets and narratives among state authorities, the security sector, and the general public about the vital role of an independent media in building a democratic, peaceful, and prosperous society. Through these efforts, the Authority continues to foster a safe, enabling, and professional environment for both national and international journalists.
Despite these engagements, Western Bahr el Ghazal has, over the years, recorded several concerning media-related incidents involving state institutions, security organs, members of the public, and the media outlets. These incidents highlighted persistent gaps in understanding media mandates, journalists’ rights, and regulatory frameworks.
In response, the Media Authority, in collaboration with JHR, organizes this two-day orientation workshop to address these gaps, promote constructive dialogue between journalists and the security sector, and prevent unnecessary interference with media operations.
The workshop featured sessions on conflict-sensitive reporting, sensitive gender reporting, understanding and responding to hate speech, media governance by the Media Authority, and operational differences between public and community radio, including issues of editorial independence and accountability.
“An independent and professional media is not a threat to peace or security but a key partner in promoting stability, accountability, and informed public discourse,” said Sapana Agyuli Abuyi, Director General of the Media Authority. “This workshop is part of our continued efforts to ensure that journalists can work safely while upholding ethical and professional standards.”
Mary Ajith, JHR Project Manager, highlighted the importance of inclusive storytelling, noting that “the way media portrays women and marginalized groups during conflict has a direct impact on public perception and social cohesion. Ethical and balanced reporting is therefore essential.”
Jima Francis Wani, JHR Coordinator, emphasized the role of responsible reporting in conflict settings. “Journalists must understand the dynamics of conflict and report in ways that reduce harm, avoid incitement, and contribute to peace rather than division,” he said.
Towards the end of the event, participants demonstrated improved understanding of media operations in South Sudan, recognition of the Media Authority as the mandated media regulator, and a shared commitment to fostering a safer and more enabling media environment in Western Bahr el Ghazal State.
The Media Authority recommitted to continued engagement with journalists, government institutions, and security to promote press freedom, responsible journalism, and peaceful coexistence across the country.
