As Malawi prepares for the upcoming general elections in September, the Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) has taken a proactive step in strengthening the understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) among journalists.
In a media training held in Dowa District, MRCS engaged central region journalists through Bwaila Media Club, equipping them with essential knowledge on IHL to enhance accurate reporting and public awareness.
Speaking at the opening of the training, MRCS Director of Programs and Development, Gloria Kunyenga, emphasized the critical role of the media in conflict reporting.
“This training will deepen understanding of IHL and improve the quality and impact of reporting, contributing to a more informed global discourse on armed conflicts and the importance of humanitarian law,” Kunyenga stated.
She further acknowledged the media’s influence in shaping public perception of armed conflicts and stressed the need for journalists to understand the rules of warfare for both individual and community benefit.
Malawi Defence Force Legal Officer, Lieutenant William Mfune, highlighted the significance of IHL for journalists, particularly in investigative reporting. He urged media practitioners to familiarize themselves with these laws to ensure accurate and responsible conflict reporting.
Bwaila Media Club (BMC) executive member, Dickson Chivwati Gondwe, expressed gratitude to MRCS for organizing the training, especially as the country approaches the elections.
“We appreciate this initiative, which will sharpen our understanding of IHL reporting as we gear up for the election period,” Gondwe said.
He encouraged fellow journalists to make full use of the knowledge gained and apply it whenever necessary.
MRCS plans to conduct a similar training session in Blantyre, targeting journalists from the southern region.
The training was organized with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
