Former Ambassador Urges Malawi Journalists to Focus on Positive Reporting
The training event highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen media capacity in Malawi, particularly in covering governance and parliamentary affairs.
ZOMBA, Malawi— Retired Ambassador Roosevelt Gondwe has called on Malawian journalists to maintain their watchdog role in parliamentary committees while emphasizing the importance of reporting on positive developments that can improve citizens' lives, writes Peter Davieson.
Gondwe made these remarks on Thursday during a media training event on governance, organized by Democracy International (DI) in Zomba.
"The overall objective of the training was to help media personnel understand political communication and improve the quality and accuracy of reporting on governance issues," Gondwe said.
He added that the workshop aimed to enhance journalists' understanding of the Malawian parliament's functions, processes, and procedures.
The former ambassador expressed concern that only a few journalists in the country report on substantive parliamentary issues that can impact citizens' lives, with many focusing instead on scandals.
Dr. Sasho Ordanoski, a parliamentary communication strategist from Macedonia, addressed the gathering on political communications and effective interviewing techniques.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to journalistic ethics and codes of conduct.
"Journalists should not be afraid of naive or non-expert sources, but rather allow them to expand more for the betterment of the listeners," Ordanoski advised.
The training event highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen media capacity in Malawi, particularly in covering governance and parliamentary affairs.
By encouraging a focus on positive reporting and substantive issues, organizers hope to enhance the media's role in fostering democratic development and public engagement in the country.