Under the theme “Uncovering the Facts: Strengthening Integrity Through Journalism,” the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (UN-PBF), hosted a two-day media training workshop aimed at enhancing investigative journalism in Liberia.

The workshop brought together 30 journalists, two from each of Liberia’s 15 counties, and 15 representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Facilitators included experts from the LACC, the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), UNDP, and a team of legal and media professionals.

Empowering Journalists with Tools and Ethics

Veteran journalist Frank B. Sainworla Jr. led a session titled “Tips on Investigative Journalism and Reporting Corruption,” urging participants to rely on credible sources, rigorously fact-check documents, and reject unethical incentives such as “brown envelopes.” He emphasized the importance of thorough preliminary research and well-informed interviews.

Jefferson Massah, a Media Development Professional and Solution Journalism Trainer, introduced participants to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in investigative reporting. He highlighted AI’s potential to accelerate data analysis, detect misinformation, and enhance the accuracy of journalistic work.

Voices from the Press Union and LACC

PUL President Julius Kanubah praised the initiative, calling it “laudable” in Liberia’s context of underdevelopment and systemic corruption. He raised concerns about media ownership by politicians, which he said compromises the independence of investigative journalism.

Vivian S. Akoto, Executive Assistant and Program Manager in the Office of the LACC Executive Chairperson, reaffirmed the Commission’s partnership with the PUL and encouraged participants to lead with “courage, curiosity, and commitment to truth.” She thanked UNDP, UN Women, Integrity Watch Liberia, and other partners for their continued support.

Participant Reflections and Institutional Commitments

Speaking on behalf of the journalists, Sarah Winnie Ellis of Voice of Sinoe Community Radio expressed gratitude for the training, noting that it would ease the challenges of investigative reporting. She echoed Kanubah’s call for greater media independence.

John E. Tommy, LACC Program Manager for Education and Prevention, described the workshop as a “collective investment in knowledge, partnership, and public integrity,” emphasizing the role of journalists and CSOs in promoting transparency and accountability.

Representing the UNDP Resident Representative, Trokon Bryant, Social Accountability and Transparency Project Manager, reiterated UNDP’s commitment to inclusive governance and civic engagement. He emphasized the importance of collaborative platforms that unite government, civil society, and communities to build public trust.

Gender Representation and Broader Impact

Of the 45 participants, 12 were women. The workshop not only enhanced legal literacy and civic understanding but also strengthened ties between the LACC, media institutions, and civil society actors.

The training was part of the Social Accountability and Transparency Project a Joint Rule of Law/Governance Programme supported by the Peacebuilding Fund and implemented by UNDP, UN Women, and Integrity Watch Liberia. 

The initiative aims to empower citizens and communities across Liberia’s 15 counties to demand accountability and improve public service delivery.

As Liberia continues its fight against corruption, initiatives like this workshop underscore the critical role of investigative journalism in fostering transparency and strengthening democratic governance.