The Executive Director and Founder of EcoMedia Development Initiatives (EcoMedia) has called on journalists covering agriculture and environmental issues to adopt more innovative and responsible reporting that will not only foster sustainable agricultural production but also promote environmental safety.
Delivering his remarks on Wednesday (March 26) during a one-day seminar in Paynesville, organized by the Liberia Agricultural and Environmental Journalists Network (LAEJN), Sengbeh addressed an audience of
journalists and media professionals, emphasizing the pivotal role of journalism in shaping public understanding and influencing policy decisions on agricultural and environmental issues. Drawing on his extensive experience as a journalist, corporate communicator, and adjunct lecturer in media and communication at the University of Liberia, the EcoMedia founder highlighted how the media can be an instrumental force in combating climate change and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices in Liberia.
In his address, the veteran Liberia journalist stressed the importance of using evidence-based reporting while focusing on real-life stories of farmers affected by climate change. These human- centered narratives, he argued, can create a deeper connection between the public and the issue, fostering a more engaged and informed audience. He further emphasized that journalism must go beyond merely reporting challenges and instead focus on educating the public and influencing agricultural policy by highlighting potential solutions.
Sengbeh noted the intricate relationship between climate change, sustainability, and agriculture.
He reminded the attendees that agriculture both contributes to and is significantly impacted by climate change. He urged journalists to develop a thorough understanding of this interconnectedness in order to report effectively on how these issues affect society, the environment, and livelihoods, particularly in the context of the growing threat of global warming.
The seminar also provided a platform for Sengbeh to encourage journalists to embrace best practices by focusing not only on problems but also on what is working in the realm of agriculture and environmental conservation. He highlighted sustainable practices such as crop Sengbeh addressing journalists at the seminar in Paynesville yesterday
rotation, regenerative farming, and agroecology, which have already proven successful in other
parts of the world and could be adapted for use in Liberia.
The EcoMedia leader also discussed the critical role of journalism in raising awareness about
the impact of climate change on food systems and urged reporters to engage in investigative
journalism to uncover unsustainable agricultural practices and expose corruption in the
agribusiness sector. Acknowledging the challenges facing journalists, including the spread of
misinformation and climate skepticism, he stressed the need for better access to accurate data to
enhance the quality of climate and agricultural reporting.
In conclusion, Sengbeh underscored the power of journalism as a tool in the fight for climate
resilience and sustainable agriculture. He explained that accurate, solutions-focused reporting
could influence policy, empower communities, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable
future for Liberia. He urged journalists to continue pushing boundaries in their reporting,
remaining dedicated to informing the public and shaping policies that will help build a more
resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in Liberia.
The seminar, aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists working in agriculture and environmental reporting, brought together leading media professionals and experts to engage in critical discussions on the theme “Strengthening Agricultural Journalism in Liberia to Improve Farmers’ Access to Information.”
Speaking on the topic “Climate Change, Sustainability, and Agriculture: Journalistic Perspectives,” the Liberia media expert sent a clear message that the future of agricultural and environmental journalism in Liberia depends on the innovation, integrity, and commitment of its journalists.
About EcoMedia Development Initiatives (EcoMedia) EcoMedia Development Initiatives (EcoMedia) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable environmental practices in Liberia since October 2023. Through education, advocacy, and media engagement, EcoMedia strives to raise awareness and empower
communities to adopt solutions for climate resilience and sustainable development.
