Access Radio Listeners Trained on Combating Misinformation and Promoting Peace

(YEI, CENTRAL EQUATORIA STATE) — Regular listeners of Access Radio in Yei have on Thursday participated in a half-day mentorship training aimed at strengthening their role in combating misinformation, promoting gender inclusivity, and encouraging conflict-sensitive communication.

The training brought together over ten selected regular callers from different parts of Yei to equip them with practical skills in responsible communication, particularly in addressing hate speech and misinformation both on air and within their communities.

Speaking during the session, trainer Paul Jimbo emphasized the importance of listener participation in radio programming.

“This training is about helping listeners actively engage with the radio. The intention is to make programs more interactive and ensure they are informed by the audience,” he said.

Jimbo highlighted that radio cannot function effectively without its audience, noting that listeners play a critical role not only in shaping content but also as agents of peace in their communities.

Participants expressed optimism about applying the knowledge gained. Kisa Fatuma, a resident of Hai Guava and a regular caller, said the training had a personal impact on her.

“I learned about gender-based violence, how to use my phone responsibly on social media, and ways to avoid domestic violence. This training has changed my life and brought healing,” she said.

Another regular commonly known in Yei as Burukusu noted that the session helped participants understand their role in reducing harmful narratives.

“We learned about the different forms of gender-based violence and how, as radio callers, we can contribute to reducing it in our communities,” he said.

John Poru Hillary, the Station Manager of Access Radio said the initiative was long overdue and is part of efforts to strengthen community engagement.

“Bringing our listeners together promotes peace and unity. It also helps us identify them as ambassadors who can guide our programming and share ideas that benefit the community,” he said.

He added that the training would also enhance journalists’ capacity to report responsibly on conflict-sensitive issues, hate speech, and misinformation.

The program was organized by Community Media Network-South Sudan in partnership with Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA). It featured expert discussions on strategies to counter harmful narratives and promote peacebuilding through accurate and responsible information sharing.