Bor Roundtable Underscores Crucial Need for Professionalism and Collaboration in South Sudanese Media Landscape
Bor, South Sudan – A critical roundtable discussion in Bor has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced professionalism, legal adherence, and collaborative partnerships within the South Sudanese media landscape. Organized by the Jonglei State Ministry of Information and Communication, in conjunction with the Media Authority and supported by Journalists for Human Rights (JHR), the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including media professionals, government officials, and representatives from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and police. The primary focus of the discussion revolved around combating the pervasive challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech, which pose a significant threat to the nation’s stability and development.
John Mahou, a representative from the Media Authority, delivered a compelling address emphasizing the paramount importance of journalists adhering to professional standards and legal protocols. He urged media practitioners to utilize existing legal frameworks and obtain proper accreditation to ensure responsible and ethical journalism. "Let’s use the law, let’s follow the law, let’s use the available legal frameworks to ensure we exercise our rights instead of resorting to violence or force,” he implored. Mahou stressed that professionalism is the cornerstone of credible journalism and urged all journalists to seek accreditation, enabling them to operate efficiently and ethically within the bounds of the law. This emphasis on legality and professionalism reflects a broader effort to enhance the credibility of the media and minimize potential conflicts with authorities.
Nyamar Lony, the Jonglei State Minister for Information, echoed Mahou’s sentiments and underscored the critical role of media literacy in countering false narratives and fostering public trust. Recognizing the susceptibility of communities to misinformation, she stressed the importance of empowering individuals to critically evaluate information, discern biases, and identify manipulative tactics. “To strengthen public trust, we must actively promote media literacy,” she stated, highlighting the crucial link between informed citizenry and a robust, credible media landscape. This focus on media literacy reflects a proactive approach to equip citizens with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex information environment and make informed decisions.
Mary Ajith, Project Manager at JHR, further enriched the discussion by emphasizing the vital role of community engagement in addressing information disorder. She proposed collaborative initiatives between journalists and organizations like JHR to develop programs focused on misinformation and disinformation. “If journalists create regular programs on misinformation and disinformation, we can support with a curriculum to help guide content development that promotes peace and unity,” she noted. This collaborative approach seeks to empower journalists with the necessary resources and expertise to effectively address the challenges of misinformation within their communities, contributing to a more informed and cohesive society.
The roundtable discussion culminated in a resounding call for fortified partnerships between the media and government, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering a responsible and accountable media ecosystem. Participants recognized the crucial role of fact-based reporting as a foundation for credible journalism and urged media professionals to prioritize accuracy and objectivity in their work. The discussions highlighted the need for continuous public engagement to ensure an informed populace capable of discerning truth from falsehood, thereby contributing to a more peaceful and stable society. This collaborative approach, involving government, media, and civil society organizations, signifies a commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing the media landscape in South Sudan.
This significant gathering in Bor marks a crucial step towards strengthening the media landscape in South Sudan. The emphasis on professionalism, legal adherence, media literacy, and community engagement reflects a comprehensive approach to combating misinformation and fostering a more responsible and credible media environment. The call for strengthened partnerships between the media and government signifies a commitment to collaborative solutions and highlights the shared responsibility in ensuring accurate and reliable information dissemination for the benefit of all citizens. The outcomes of this roundtable hold promise for a more informed, peaceful, and united South Sudan, demonstrating the transformative potential of a responsible and accountable media landscape. This collaborative approach holds the key to fostering a vibrant and credible media ecosystem that serves the public interest and contributes to the nation’s democratic development. The roundtable’s conclusions represent a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and credibility of journalism in South Sudan, paving the way for a more informed and empowered citizenry.