BY-FATMA-CAIRO - EGYPT
Amb. Ahmed Haggag, Advisor to the Union of African Journalists has said that a journalist's pen and voice are the greatest weapons to change policies and defend the rights of the vulnerable in Africa.
Speaking to journalists in Cairo Amb. Haggag said the four best qualities for a journalist are be brief with news speak the truth, build unity, and be the voice of the vulnerable these are what will bring change to Africa.
The Ambassador urged journalists not to fear talking about problems in other African countries but to do so with respect and using official statistics.
"A journalist should not be afraid to talk about internal issues of other African countries But let us do it with diplomacy without insulting anyone," he said.
He stressed that the goal is to bring about change that will drive Africa's development not to create conflict between nations.
"The Palestinians need to hear your voice," he said. He cited that more than 250,000 children have been affected and 75,000 people have been killed in Gaza, He also commended South Africa's step of taking the case to court, and said Africa must stand together on issues of justice.
"Education is a weapon for change, and that weapon is your communication, Use it wisely."
Charles Ndi Chia, President of the Cameroon Journalists Association, said the biggest challenge for journalists is using communication as a strategic weapon to change policies in order to help the voiceless.
"How do we use communication as a strategic weapon to change policies to save the voiceless? This is where we get stuck. We need to work together on this."
Charles said many poor countries jail journalists when they try to reveal the truth. He called on all journalists in Africa to persuade governments to change policies without creating conflict.
Speaking journalists from across the continent said their biggest challenge is being blocked from reporting, "The moment you start explaining the situation, they tell you 'you have no right.' It hurts, but you want safety."
The training is part of the efforts by the Union of African Journalists in collaboration with Egypt's Supreme Council for Media Regulation, with the aim of strengthening media freedom.
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