Maseru, May 28 — The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) together with the United Nations Sexual and Reproductive Health Agency on Wednesday held a one-day capacity building workshop for journalists on reporting Gender Based Violence (GBV).
Speaking during the workshop, the UNFPA Representative Mr. John Kennedy Mosoti mentioned that the initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of journalists to report GBV in an ethical, accurate, inclusive and survivor-centred manner.
Mr. Mosoti said many survivors continue to suffer in silence, often confiding in close friends or neighbours instead of seeking assistance from authorities or support institutions.
He noted that the involvement of the media in reporting GBV issues can help break the silence surrounding abuse cases, raise awareness, encourage survivors to speak out and contribute towards eliminating stigma associated with GBV.
On the other hand, the Acting Director General at the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Social Development Mrs. ‘Mapuleng Secheche noted that despite challenges surrounding efforts to tackle GBV, including limited financial resources, the role of the media in disseminating information remains critical.
She stated that journalists have the power to influence communities positively through informative and responsible reporting that promotes awareness and behavioural change regarding GBV issues.
Meanwhile, Senior Inspector Mojabeng Mokotjomela from the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) said Maseru district continues to record the highest number of reported GBV cases, while Mokhotlong and Mafeteng districts have the highest reported murder cases linked to GBV.
She explained that the most common forms of GBV reported include sexual abuse, physical abuse and emotional abuse.
Senior Inspector Mokotjomela further urged journalists to exercise caution when reporting GBV cases by protecting the identities of survivors and avoiding the publication of names or pictures that may compromise their safety and wellbeing.
One of the participants, Mr. Majara Molupe appealed to stakeholders to ensure journalists have access to information in order to support their stories with factual and accurate data.
He said improved access to information would strengthen reporting on GBV and help the media effectively educate the public on the magnitude of the problem.
Statistics on Gender Based Violence in Lesotho indicate that about 87 percent of women and girls have experienced GBV in their lifetime.
Stakeholders at the workshop further emphasised the importance of collaboration between the media, government institutions and development partners in the fight against Gender Based Violence in the country.
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