Report By: Ishmael Barfi
In the quest to ensure accurate energy sector reporting in the age of social media, over 30 Ghanaian journalists have undergone an intensive training program.
The capacity-building initiative organized by Energy News Africa Limited was held on 4th February 2025 in Accra to equip media practitioners with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of social media while ensuring fact-based reporting.
The training program, themed “Navigating the Complexities of Social Media: Best Practices for Accurate Energy Reporting,” brought together renowned experts in the energy sector.
These experts included Charles Wundengba, CEO of Wundef Media, and Dr. Kwame Ampofo, former Chairman of the Energy Commission.
During his presentation, Charles Wundengba acknowledged that, social media has transformed the way news is disseminated, but journalists must verify sources and fact-check information to stem the tide of misinformation.
He however emphasized the importance of understanding the subject matter, verifying sources, and clarifying terminologies before reporting on energy-related stories.
On his part, Dr. Kwame Ampofo stressed the need for journalists to be thorough in their investigations, seeking clarification before publishing stories that might misrepresent the realities of the energy sector.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere, former Board Chairman of GRIDCo, advised journalists to have a deep understanding of the energy sector’s structure and to always verify and fact-check information.
This he believes will enhance journalists reportage and give relevant and accurate information to the general public regarding to the energy sector.
The training program is part of efforts to promote responsible journalism in Ghana’s energy sector, ensuring that journalists are equipped to provide accurate and fact-based reporting in the age of social media. By enhancing their reporting skills, journalists can play a crucial role in shaping public perception of the energy sector and promoting informed decision-making.
The training program organized by Energy News Africa Limited marks an important step towards promoting accurate and responsible journalism in Ghana’s energy sector.
As the media continues to play a vital role in shaping public discourse, journalists must be equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of social media and provide fact-based reporting.
Participants were drawn from various media outlets, including print, television, radio, and online media.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
