MONROVIA –The Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP–Liberia) over the weekend successfully concluded a two-day Accountability through Civic Technology Training Workshop for female journalists and activists, in Ganta City, Nimba County.
The training was organized by CEMESP with funding support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Accra, Ghana, and brought together female journalists from community radio stations across all nine political districts of Nimba County.
Speaking during the formal opening ceremony, CEMESP’ Executive Director, Malcolm Joseph, provided an overview of the workshop and underscored the importance of empowering female journalists with digital and civic technology skills to strengthen accountability at the local level.
He said the training is about equipping female journalists with the tools to demand accountability, amplify citizens’ voices, and use technology responsibly to expose corruption and human rights violations.
“Community radio remains the closest medium to the people, and when female journalists are empowered with civic tech and digital skills, democracy becomes stronger and more inclusive,” Mr. Joseph added.
Also delivering remarks at the opening ceremony was Melvin Korboi, Secretary General of the Nimba Community Radio Network, who commended CEMESP for investing in the professional growth of female journalists in the county. He emphasized the critical role community radio journalists play in promoting transparency and peace at the grassroots level.
The Female Journalists Association of Liberia Nimba county Coordinator Williett Wonyenneh encouraged participants to use the knowledge gained to advance ethical journalism, protect digital rights, and increase women’s visibility in governance and public accountability reporting.
The training covered a wide range of topics, including: Introduction to accountability journalism and civic technology, Reporting corruption, human rights, and digital rights, Artificial intelligence in journalism, Digital tools for civic reporting, Social media for advocacy, Storytelling and networking, Fact-checking and verification techniques, among others
Participants expressed appreciation for the practical nature of the sessions, noting that the training has enhanced their capacity to produce credible, impactful, and technology-driven stories that respond to community needs across Nimba County.
CEMESP reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening independent media, promoting peacebuilding, and supporting inclusive governance in Liberia, while expressing gratitude to the Embassy of the Netherlands for its continued partnership and support.