The Director of the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS), Ayaa Irene calls on media practitioners to use the media channels responsibly and promote peace-building activities in the country.
Speaking at the panel discussion of the 3-day workshop organized by the Nonviolent Peaceforce in Juba today, Ayaa elaborated on the crucial role that media can play in promoting peace and protecting the citizens.
She advised journalists to embrace new media technology to ensure that credible information are verified before dissemination.
“Today, I had the chance to participate in a panel discussion where I echoed the need to use media responsibly. I have shared my thoughts on how technology and media can be used effectively to promote peace-building efforts and protect civilians in South Sudan,” she underscored.
Ayaa further advised journalists to embrace new media technology of fact-checking to ensure the dissemination and publication of accurate, reliable, and credible information.
“The need for verification and fact-checking to ensure the publication of accurate, reliable, and credible information is essential before disseminating information,” she added.
Director Ayaa cautioned participants against the misuse of social media for spreading hate speech, misinformation, and incitement to violence.
She highlighted the importance of protecting journalists and urged them to prioritize their safety, acknowledging the inherent risks of the profession.
“There is no story worth a human life,” she stated, reinforcing the message that journalists should always put their lives first. The 3-day “Stakeholder Collaboration and Learning Forum 2024” workshop, which commenced earlier today at the Royal Palace Hotel, was held under the theme “Building Bridges: Creating Safe Spaces for Inclusive Peace Processes in South Sudan.”