ECOWAS Trains Gambian Journalists To Tackle Fake News and Safeguard Democracy
In an era where misinformation and fake news are fuelling distrust and threatening democratic stability, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has stepped up efforts to strengthen information integrity across the region.
Over 40 Gambian journalists drawn from print, broadcast and online media participated in a two-day media training in Banjul, organised by ECOWAS in partnership with the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and the Government of Germany.
The workshop, which ran from 22–23 September, focused on combating misinformation, disinformation and anti-democratic narratives while promoting media and information literacy (MIL).
Journalists were trained in advanced fact-checking and open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques, the use of AI to track disinformation patterns, and conflict-sensitive, rights-based reporting.
Declaring the workshop open on behalf of ECOWAS President Dr Omar Alieu Touray, the organisation’s Resident Representative in The Gambia, Ambassador Miatta Lily French, described the initiative as “more than a training exercise”, calling it a crucial step in protecting democracy and peace in West Africa.
“A free, ethical and informed press is not only the lifeblood of democracy but also a cornerstone of peace and security,” she said.
“Together, we can counter harmful narratives, reinforce democratic values, and contribute to the vision of a prosperous and integrated West Africa.”
Germany’s Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), represented by Ms Barbara Kirsch of GIZ, reaffirmed its support for independent journalism, warning that “the path of a liar is very short.”
She stressed the importance of fact-checking in preserving democratic values and social trust.
Participants praised the initiative as timely and impactful. President of the Gambia Press Union, Isatou Keita, said the training was essential in an age of social media where misinformation erodes public trust.
Star TV journalist Alagie Cherno Suwareh added that journalists must embrace best practices to defend democracy and avoid spreading harmful narratives.
With disinformation increasingly weaponised across the globe, ECOWAS says the training reflects its Vision 2050, which prioritises a peaceful, secure and inclusive region anchored on credible information and responsible journalism.
