By Precious D. Freeman
The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) recently concluded a Maritime Security Reporting Course designed to bolster the skills of journalists and coastguard personnel in addressing maritime security issues.
The training held in Monrovia aims to enhance reporting standards and foster collaboration between media professionals and security agencies across West Africa.
The course brought together 27 participants, including journalists from prominent media outlets, members of the Coastguard, and representatives from the Liberian Drugs Enforcement Agencies (LDEA), the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), and the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA).
The training covered critical topics such as maritime law, piracy, illegal fishing, and environmental protection at sea.
A facilitator at the course, Captain Michael Larbi, emphasized the importance of understanding maritime security complexities for effective reporting.
“Journalists play a vital role in informing the public about these issues and holding authorities accountable,” he stated.
The course utilized interactive sessions, including case studies, group discussions, and practical exercises to simulate real-world scenarios and this hands-on approach allowed participants to directly apply their newfound knowledge to their professional roles.
A journalist from a local news outlet, Aminata Kromah, praised the course for broadening her understanding of maritime security.
“I now feel more confident in my ability to cover stories related to piracy and illegal fishing,” she said.
Dexter Roberts, class President from the Liberia Maritime Authority, highlighted the significance of collaboration between journalists and security forces.
“Working together is essential for tackling maritime threats effectively. This course has strengthened our relationship with media professionals,” he noted.
The KAIPTC’s Maritime Security Reporting Course represents a key step in enhancing maritime safety in West Africa. By improving communication between journalists and security agencies, the initiative aims to foster a more informed public discourse on maritime issues.
A representative from the Monrovia Regional Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Samuel Brown, underscored the importance of such initiatives. “As piracy continues to challenge coastal waters in West Africa, courses like this are crucial for building resilience against these threats. The knowledge gained will contribute to more informed reporting and greater public awareness.”
The KAIPTC, established by the Ghana Ministry of Defense in 1998 and officially commissioned in 2004, continues to play a pivotal role in training personnel from across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.
By leveraging Ghana’s extensive experience in peace operations, KAIPTC seeks to enhance the capacity of individuals involved in multidimensional peace efforts.
