Journalists and media workers from Ivory Coast’s Béré and Worodougou regions have vowed to intensify efforts against the spread of disinformation, pledging to make their regions models for responsible journalism.
The commitment came on Wednesday, July 23, during the closing ceremony of a training seminar in Séguéla, organised by the Ministry of Communication with support from the French Agency for Media Development (CFI).
The workshop, part of the programme “Online, All Responsible”, focused on equipping journalists with practical tools to identify, counter, and prevent the spread of false information, especially during politically sensitive periods.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Tiené Taki, director of local broadcaster La Voix du Béré, stressed the urgency of addressing the issue.
“Disinformation represents a constant threat, particularly during election periods. Thanks to the methods and tools we have acquired, we are committed to ensuring it will not pass here. We want Béré and Worodougou to stand as examples of rigor and reliability in news dissemination,” he said.
Koutouan Félix Olivier, Deputy Director of Audiovisual Development and representative of the Minister of Communication, highlighted the national importance of the initiative.
“The goal is to raise awareness, equip journalists with the ability to detect false information, and above all, reduce the risks that could undermine the country’s stability,” Olivier explained, underlining that the training aims not only to empower media professionals but also to protect the public from harmful narratives.
The seminar brought together dozens of journalists, radio hosts, and local media supervisors from both regions. Participants were trained in fact-checking, digital verification techniques, and ethical reporting standards designed to strengthen the credibility of regional media outlets.
Organisers say the programme will continue to expand, with similar sessions planned for other parts of the country, as Ivory Coast seeks to bolster press integrity and maintain social cohesion ahead of future national events.
About The Author
