NGO trains Journalists  on   interpreting cultural nuances in mental health

A framework for investigative reporting on trauma, trafficking, suicide, and gender-based violence, known as the RAI programme has been launched in Lagos.

Put together for journalists, it is aimed to address the intersection of mental health and media, with a focus on combating suicide and violence against children, women, and trafficked survivors.

The convener of the training, the Executive Director  Child Solidarity, a non – governmental organization, NGO, Emediong Akapbio, said, the essence of the training was to remind journalists on the importance of ethical reporting and sensitivity, particularly regarding mental health issues, addressing challenges in interpreting cultural nuances, like those found in Pidgin language and ensure respectful and empathetic communication.

 ” This also emphasized the importance of addressing the trafficking of boys and men, particularly those deceived under the guise of playing football in Europe “.

According to  Emediong, ” while investigating trauma related to trafficking, suicide, and gender-based violence there is the need for . media advocacy and training to support RAI programme with journalists spread across various media platforms, involving NEMA to train journalists on trafficking victim data “.

” The necessary tools and support to shed light on issues across different media channels. platforms, is necessary to foster synergy among media professionals to effectively shed light on these critical issues and contribute to prevention and mitigation efforts “.

A Consultant,  Damilola Olaoye, who assessed the impact of a previous training  on Trauma reporting praised the media but urged them to do more by designing strategies for spreading trauma-informed reporting practices by

reflecting commitment to ongoing efforts and ethical journalism.

” I encourage you to share your learnings, ensure collective effort towards positive change and observe  ethical reporting and sensitivity, particularly regarding mental health issues to protect survivors from stigma and discrimination “. Olaoye

The participants proposed providing resources and grants to cover investigative stories on trauma reporting for victims of trafficking, survivors of gender-based violence, and suicide.

The training was supported by the US Consulate General.

Nkechi Maculey