In a step towards empowering journalists, the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome program (MLW) recently held a training session in safeguarding. The goal was clear – not just to give them knowledge and skills on safeguarding, but to empower them to stand up for the rights of children and vulnerable adults and to tell stories that protects the victims. Taking place at MLW’s offices in Blantyre on 13th February, the training covered various aspects of safeguarding, giving participants useful insights and tools for handling this important part of journalism.
The training, described as “an eye opener” by Smart Sochela from YONECO FM, had participants from various media houses in Malawi which included, YONECO FM, Islam TV, MBC, Kulinji, Blantyre Synod Radio and many other online and freelance journalists.
Training facilitator, Elizabeth Mkutumula who is the safeguarding officer at MLW said the training offered a deep dive into understanding safeguarding from all angles.
In the training, Elizabeth defined Safeguarding and its applicable legal frameworks, Power & Safeguarding, and Safeguarding in Journalism and how journalists can really make a difference in promoting safeguarding.
“The training wasn’t just about listening; it was interactive and got everyone talking. They even took a moment to think about who really needs safeguarding”, said Elizabeth with Elizabeth urging everyone to look at their own vulnerabilities.
For journalists like Edward Rex from Islam TV, the training wasn’t just another session. It gave him real insights and skills that he believes will help him tell sensitive stories more responsibly. He pointed out how crucial it is, especially when dealing with tough topics like defilement.
After the training, Elizabeth Mkutumula stressed the important role journalists play in bringing to light behaviors that violate human rights. She made it clear that journalists have a responsibility to shine a light on things going wrong in communities, ultimately helping to protect people.
This move by MLW isn’t just a one-time offering; it’s part of a bigger effort and an extension of MLW’s Journalists in Residence program (JIR), which is about building the capacity of journalists in reporting on health research.
