A three-day peace journalism training concluded Thursday for 17 reporters and listeners of Radio Jonglei 95.9 FM, a community station in Bor, Jonglei State, while the outlet remains off-air.
The station’s broadcasts were halted Sunday by National Security officers for allegedly airing a song that advocated violence amid tensions between the Ayual community of Twic East County and the Hol community of Duk County.
Authorities called the shutdown of the radio station a “small issue” that would be resolved, but the station has remained silent for four days.
The workshop, organized by the Community Media Network (CoMNet) with support from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), aimed to strengthen conflict-sensitive reporting.
Trainees told Radio Tamazuj the skills gained were transformative.
Achol Jok Achol, a journalist, said she now better understands ethical reporting. “This training empowers us to improve our work,” she said.
Deng Gai, the station’s news editor, said the workshop was timely given the state’s challenging media environment. “It reinforces professionalism, even while we’re off-air. We urge authorities to reopen Radio Jonglei—our community relies on it,” he said.
Paul Jimbo, a media trainer and CoMNet program officer, said the station was selected to cultivate peace ambassadors who counter hate speech. “We’re equipping journalists to reject misinformation and report responsibly,” he said.
Tijwog Agwet, the station’s CEO, called the training impactful and urged further media investment. “Journalists need skills in conflict-sensitive, health, and ethical reporting to ensure quality journalism,” he said.
South Sudanese journalists grapple with limited training opportunities, low wages and poor infrastructure while working under constant threats and censorship. Despite these challenges, they remain vital in informing the public and holding power accountable.