By Binta Jaiteh
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) in partnership with Beakanyang, Monday, trained dozens of journalists on countering hate speech in elections as the April parliamentary elections draws nearer.
The training held at Baobab Holiday Inn aimed to enhance peaceful democratic elections and advocate for prevention of violence.
Speaking at the training, Isatou Keita, Vice President of Gambia Press Union described the training as very important, adding it creates room for journalists to be aware and also inform the masses about the daily matters.
“This training is important as far as journalism is concern, this is a part the GPU undertakings to build the capacity of journalists not only on hate speech. We have done series of trainings all gearing towards preventing incitement of any violence to the society,” she said.
Ms Keita said the training is part of UNDP funded projects under its low value grant which seeks to enhance stakeholders in ensuring a peaceful democratic and advocate for the prevention of violence and its consequences it has on the society.
She urged the trainees to make best use of the training as whatever emanates will not only benefit the participant only but the Gambia Press Union as well.
Meanwhile, Famara Janneh, executive director of Beakanyang said his organisation has been partnering with GPU for couple of times in encountering hate speeches, while encouraged media houses not to be used to divide the country.
He said: “we will continue to engage with GPU and other light stakeholders for our journalists to be well trained. This is a great opportunity of Beakanyang to be to be associated with this, we have been partnering with GPU for couple of months conducting series of activities, thanks to the support of UNDP. We are training the journalists to see the impact on how to tackle hate speech as we have to make sure that hate speech is address.”
“Hate speech is becoming a problem, UNDP has taken measure in making sure that it is eradicated,” he added.
Ms Aissata De, UNDP Resident Representative said the media has a great role to play in the process. When it comes to elections as dealing with the emotions societal issues and Journalists should be the ambassadors and role models for people to understand the messages