Youssouf Urges Media To Uphold Proper To Correct Info In Africa

President of the African Community of Journalists for the Promotion of Well being and the Surroundings (REMAPSEN), Bamba Youssouf, has known as on African media to uphold the general public’s proper to correct and truthful info, particularly on points regarding well being and the setting.

Youssouf acknowledged this as REMAPSEN marks its fifth anniversary on Thursday .

In a message to members throughout the continent, he praised the organisation’s speedy progress and impression in elevating consciousness on vital growth points.

In response to Youssouf, over the previous 5 years, REMAPSEN has constructed a robust presence in almost 40 African nations, championing advocacy round well being and environmental justice.

The president famous that the primary part of REMAPSEN’s existence targeted on organising buildings, constructing capability, and establishing the community’s affect.

With that basis now firmly in place, the subsequent part, he mentioned, should give attention to reinforcing management and deepening engagement with the general public by accountable journalism.

“The media, nonetheless thought of the fourth property, should now assume their tasks in informing populations within the face of the emergence of latest pandemics, reminiscent of COVID-19 in 2020,” Youssouf acknowledged.

He additional emphasised that the function of the press is extra vital than ever, particularly in an age the place misinformation can undermine public well being efforts, urging African journalists and media establishments to recommit to their watchdog function.

“I subsequently urge all African media retailers to strengthen their dedication to a continent the place each particular person has a authorized proper to correct and truthful info within the areas of well being and the setting. Africa can be higher for it.”