CAMASEJ Bamenda tackles Hate Speech, Boast Media Credibility

The Cameroon Association of English Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) Bamenda chapter has organized a one-day workshop on "Journalism and the Cyber Space."

Supported by the Cameroon National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism (NCPBM), the workshop according to the chapter President Muma Jude had as main objective to equip journalists with essential skills to combat hate speech and xenophobia, while also emphasizing the importance of personal branding as a way of boasting credibility in the media landscape in the region.

Partial view of workshop participants in session

In a compelling presentation on branding, management, and monetizing social media accounts, Bakah Derick, Administrator and Lead Strategist at Hilltopvoices Communications Group Ltd, stressed the vital role of branding in today’s journalism.

"In the digital age, effective branding is not just about visibility but about building trust and credibility. Your personal and institutional brand can set you apart in a crowded media landscape," Bakah Derick noted. He provided practical strategies for journalists to enhance their online presence, emphasizing consistency and unique value proposition as key components of successful branding.

Bakah Derick speaking at the workshop

The workshop featured five other presentations by Nduku Louis on hate speech and xenophobia, Kanda Honorine on best practices for mitigating hate speech and xenophobia for journalists in the North West region, Pedmia Shatu on digital safety and cybersecurity, Ngang Vadex on the implications of artificial intelligence in journalism with Mbuh Stella concluding with a session on safety and security for journalists in hostile environments.

Picture of participants and facilitators

Reflecting on the workshop's impact, CAMASEJ Bamenda president Muma Jude noted in a post on the organization's social media handle that "Together, we're fostering a culture of tolerance, understanding, and responsible journalism. Kudos to all the journalists who joined us in this crucial initiative."

Muma has also noted that the workshop is a result of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed with the NCPBM and the Civic Watch in 2023 to combat hate speech and xenophobia and also empowered journalists with the tools to build robust personal and institutional brands.

Other pictures during the workshop

Group work