Tenkodogo: The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) held an exchange workshop with media professionals from the Goulmou and Nakamb© regions on Monday in Tenkodogo. The objective of this meeting was to strengthen understanding of the institution's mandate and operating procedures, with a view to better covering humanitarian issues in crisis-affected areas.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the workshop brought together journalists, communicators, and ICRC representatives to discuss the fundamental principles governing humanitarian action: humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Zalissa Sanfo, ICRC public communications officer, emphasized the aim was to create a space for discussion to raise awareness of the organization among media professionals. "This meeting is not a first, but it remains essential. When you know an organization well, you can talk about it better. And journalists are essential relays for promoting our humanitarian concerns," she said.
During the work, the participants were informed about the various interventions of the ICRC in the regions of Goulmou, Tapoa, Sirba, and Nakamb©. Screenings, interactive discussions, and demonstrations of first aid gestures, led by the Burkinabe Red Cross (CRBF), enriched the discussions.
A highlight of the workshop was the presentation of the 6th edition of the humanitarian reporting competition launched by the ICRC. This year, the theme of the mental health of affected communities, is the aim of this initiative to encourage journalists to cover humanitarian issues in a professional and humane manner. "Four trophies are up for grabs. We sincerely hope that one of them will go to the Eastern region," said Ms. Sanfo.
Present at the meeting, journalist Rasmata Ou©draogo of RTB Goulmou welcomed the initiative. For her, "it's a wonderful experience that strengthens our capacities and creates bridges between journalism and humanitarian action."
For his part, the regional delegate of the Higher Council of Communication (CSC) of Goulmou, Boureima Cyrille Bandiba Ouoba, stressed the importance of sustainable support in terms of training. He called for continued capacity building for media professionals, particularly in international humanitarian law. "The discussions were very enriching. We hope that the ICRC will be able to go further in its support for communications professionals," he said.
This initiative is part of a drive to strengthen synergies between the media and humanitarian actors. By providing journalists with appropriate tools for understanding and analysis, the ICRC aims to promote responsible media coverage that serves vulnerable communities.