Sahel journalists gather in N’Djamena to strengthen legal protections

A regional workshop brought together around 20 media professionals from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Chad in N’Djamena on Monday, June 8, 2026, to explore ways to better protect journalists covering environmental issues in a context often marked by insecurity and pressure.

Hosted at the Centre d’Études et de Formation pour le Développement (CEFOD), this three-day event was organised by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The initiative aims to enhance environmental journalists’ knowledge of their rights while equipping them with tools to better navigate the risks inherent to their profession.

Communications Minister and government spokesperson Gassim Chérif Mahamat presided over the opening ceremony. Addressing attendees, he underscored the media’s crucial role in raising public awareness about environmental challenges and advocated for a supportive environment for journalism.

Throughout the sessions, participants will delve into topics including legal safeguards for journalists, physical and digital security, and the unique difficulties encountered when covering environmental stories. The exchanges also offer an opportunity for professionals from different Sahelian nations to share experiences and strategies.

Ndeye Diary Ba, RSF’s project manager for sub-Saharan Africa, noted that the gathering responds to a growing need for protection among journalists specialising in environmental reporting. In a region grappling with climate change effects, dwindling natural resources, and persistent insecurity, these reporters are increasingly called upon to inform the public on sensitive matters.

Scheduled to run for several days, the workshop is expected to produce recommendations aimed at bolstering the safety of environmental journalists and promoting a more protective legal framework across Sahel countries.