President of the African Network of Journalists for the Promotion of Health and the Environment (REMAPSEN), Bamba Youssouf, has called on African media to uphold the public’s right to accurate and truthful information, especially on issues concerning health and the environment.
Youssouf stated this as REMAPSEN marks its fifth anniversary on Thursday .
In a message to members across the continent, he praised the organisation’s rapid growth and impact in raising awareness on critical development issues.
According to Youssouf, over the past five years, REMAPSEN has built a strong presence in nearly 40 African countries, championing advocacy around health and environmental justice.
The president noted that the first phase of REMAPSEN’s existence focused on setting up structures, building capacity, and establishing the network’s influence.
With that foundation now firmly in place, the next phase, he said, must focus on reinforcing leadership and deepening engagement with the public through responsible journalism.
“The media, still considered the fourth estate, must now assume their responsibilities in informing populations in the face of the emergence of new pandemics, such as COVID-19 in 2020,” Youssouf stated.
He further emphasised that the role of the press is more critical than ever, especially in an age where misinformation can undermine public health efforts, urging African journalists and media institutions to recommit to their watchdog role.
“I therefore urge all African media outlets to strengthen their commitment to a continent where every person has a legal right to accurate and truthful information in the areas of health and the environment. Africa will be better for it.”
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