By George K. Momo
MONROVIA, Sept. 29 (LINA) – The Association of Liberia Community Radio (ALICO), with support from the Ministry of Information (MOI) has commenced a two-day Contributors’ Production Training in Gbarnga, Bong County, under the theme: Connecting Government to the People Through Information Dissemination.
The training, which brought together content contributors from community radio stations across the country, is aimed at enhancing the capacity of local journalists in content production, syndication, and information sharing.
Speaking recently at the opening of the ceremony, Mr. A. Trokon Tarr, Director General of the Liberia News Agency (LINA), described the initiative as a vital milestone in Liberia’s effort to democratize information and elevate local voices.
“It is a profound pleasure to stand before you today at this content contributors’ syndication training workshop sponsored by the Government of Liberia. Today marks a vital milestone in our national effort to democratize information, elevate local voices and foster a truly inclusive media ecosystem,” Director General Tarr said.
According to him, community radio stations are not just broadcasters, but the heartbeat of rural and urban societies operating at the direct interface of citizens’ daily lives.
“When you speak, the community listens, because you speak their language, share their challenges and celebrate their triumphs,” he noted.
Director Tarr emphasized that content syndication is a game-changer for Liberia’s media landscape, noting that by collaborating, pooling resources, and sharing content across radio stations, geographical barriers will be broken.
“By telling a story of a farmer in one county to inspire another farmer in another county, you help to ensure that campaigns in health, education and other government initiatives can save lives when syndicated effectively,” he added.
However, he cautioned that content syndication is only as powerful as the quality, accuracy and relevance of the material being shared.
“As content contributors, your responsibility is in twofold. First, you are guardians of local truth. In an era when disinformation and misinformation spread like wildfire, the credibility of community radio remains our strongest shield. This workshop will equip you with the necessary and advanced skills in investigative reporting, fact-checking and ethical journalism,” her stressed.
He added, Second, you are pillars of social cohesion. The stories you produce should highlight our shared matters, drive developmental agendas, hold local governance accountable and remain sensitive to the diverse fabric of our communities.”
Director Tarr reiterated the Ministry of Information’s commitment to supporting an independent, vibrant and sustainable community media sector.
“The Ministry of Information remains fully committed to supporting independent, vibrant and sustainable community media. We recognize that infrastructure is nothing without human capital. That is why we will continue to partner with stakeholders to provide training opportunities like this one,” he stated.
He urged participants to maximize the opportunity, engage deeply with facilitators, network with peers and challenge themselves to go beyond traditional reporting boundaries.
He noted that for the Government, investment in community radio and journalists is an investment in national development.
Director Tarr then, on behalf of the Acting Minister of Information, Hon. Johnny S. Tengbeh, officially launched the workshop.