The Association for Media Development in South Sudan, AMDISS, in partnership with the Norwegian People’s Aid, has concluded a three-day refresher training on courtroom reporting for journalists in Juba.
The workshop, held from Tuesday to Thursday, aimed at equipping journalists with the skills needed to report accurately and ethically on court proceedings. The sessions covered legal frameworks, courtroom etiquette, and proper legal terminology.
The training was facilitated by Justice Abraham Majur Laat of the Court of Appeal, together with Kenyan media trainer Paul Ogembe.
Participants appreciated the initiative, saying the knowledge gained will enhance their reporting. Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Emmanuella said the workshop came at the right time and will improve their work in the field.
“This training came at the right time. The knowledge we gained is rich, and we’re ready to apply it in the field.”
AMDISS Board Chairperson, Josephine Achiro, urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, noting that responsible reporting keeps them safe while covering sensitive issues.
“When you write about issues of national interest, security forces may take notice. But if you follow journalistic ethics, you’ll remain on the safer side.”
NPA Media Rights Coordinator, Jacob Atem, said the training will help promote factual and balanced court reporting.
“This workshop will help journalists produce factual and balanced court reporting, promoting credibility and accountability in the media sector.” Jacob Atem, highlighted.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Access to Information, Hon. Moyiga Nduru, commended the collaboration and expressed hope for improved media coverage of judicial matters.
“I look forward to seeing better stories and articles about court reporting,” he said.
The training follows recent AMDISS research, which highlighted a shortage of professional journalists specialized in court reporting, a gap that allegedly became evident during the ongoing high-profile special court trial of eight SPLA-IO officials, including the suspended First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar Teny.