By Kemo Kanyi
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Office of the National Security (ONS) on Wednesday validated a training manual for journalists on reporting Security Sector Reform issues in The Gambia.
The validation workshop, held at the UN House Cape Point, brought together representatives of security institutions, media trainers and students from the Media Academy for Journalism and Communication and the University of The Gambia, as well as members of the Gambia Press Union.
The initiative aims to strengthen democratic governance, accountability and public trust in the security sector through responsible and ethical media engagement.
Speaking at the event, Mandisa Mashologu said effective security sector reform (ssr) could not be achieved in isolation, noting that SSR was globally recognized as governance and accountability process rather than a purely technical exercise.
She adds that this approach is anchored in the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2151, which emphasizes democratic oversight, civilian participation and accountability.
Mashologu highlighted the role of the media as an oversight actor and a platform for public information and dialogue, stressing its importance in promoting transparency and public confidence.
She says the training manual incorporates international standards on information integrity, including guidance to help journalists counter misinformation and disinformation while upholding professional and ethical standards. The manual also integrates gender-sensitive reporting and aligns with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.
The president of the Gambia Press Union, Isatou Keita, said the relationship between the media and the security sector should be guided by professionalism and mutual respect.
She noted that the manual would be used by journalism training institutions and stressed the need for it to be practical and reflective of media realities.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Landing Kinteh said the manual would equip journalists with the knowledge to report on security issues with accuracy, professionalism and sensitivity, while balancing the public’s right to information with national security considerations.
