The Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP–Liberia) has successfully concluded a two-day training workshop on Accountability through Civic Technology for female journalists and activists in Ganta City, Nimba County.
The initiative, supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Accra, Ghana, brought together female journalists from community radio stations across all nine political districts of Nimba. The program aimed to strengthen accountability reporting and enhance the use of digital tools in grassroots journalism.
Opening the workshop, CEMESP Executive Director Malcolm Joseph underscored the importance of equipping female journalists with civic technology skills to amplify citizens’ voices and demand accountability. He emphasized that community radio remains the most accessible medium for rural populations, and empowering women in this space strengthens democracy and inclusivity.
“This training is about giving female journalists the tools to responsibly use technology in exposing corruption and human rights violations,” Joseph said. “When women in community radio are empowered, democracy becomes stronger and more inclusive.”
Melvin Korboi, Secretary General of the Nimba Community Radio Network, praised CEMESP for investing in the professional growth of female journalists. He highlighted the critical role of community radio in promoting transparency and peace at the grassroots level.
Similarly, Williett Wonyenneh, Nimba County Coordinator of the Female Journalists Association of Liberia, encouraged participants to apply the knowledge gained to advance ethical journalism, protect digital rights, and increase women’s visibility in governance and accountability reporting.
Participants described the training as practical and impactful, noting that it enhanced their ability to produce credible, technology-driven stories that respond to community needs.
CEMESP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting independent media, promoting peacebuilding, and advancing inclusive governance in Liberia. The organization expressed gratitude to the Embassy of the Netherlands for its continued partnership in strengthening civic engagement and accountability through media.
By focusing on female journalists and activists, the training not only addressed professional development but also contributed to broader efforts to ensure women’s voices are heard in governance and public discourse.
As Liberia continues to grapple with challenges of corruption, limited accountability, and weak civic participation, initiatives like CEMESP’s workshop highlight the transformative role of media in bridging the gap between citizens and institutions. Empowering women in journalism, particularly at the community level, is seen as a vital step toward building a more transparent, inclusive, and democratic society.
