Enhancing journalist safety in Cameroon: a vital training initiative in Yaoundé

Fifteen dedicated media professionals recently completed a comprehensive one-day training session in Yaoundé, focusing on critical aspects of their personal and professional security. The curriculum covered essential themes such as pre-assignment risk assessment, implementing best practices in high-pressure situations, safeguarding sensitive data and sources, and effectively managing the psychological impacts associated with challenging reportage.

Yanick Bezang, who coordinates the Cameroun Média Plus project for the International Federation of Journalists, underscored the evolving necessity of journalist safety as an integral part of the profession. He emphasized, “Journalists are routinely called upon to cover conflicts, natural disasters, public demonstrations, or periods of intense political tension. Their commitment to informing the public must never come at the expense of their physical or psychological integrity. This training provides them with tangible tools to better anticipate risks and carry out their duties with greater assurance.“

This crucial initiative arrives at a time when media practitioners in Cameroon frequently navigate complex and often hazardous environments. These include the ongoing repercussions of the crisis in the North-West and South-West regions, various natural calamities, and the delicate task of reporting on politically sensitive events.

Blaise Atabong Amindeh, who led the training session, strongly advocated for integrating security reflexes into the daily routine of journalism. He explained, “A journalist’s most effective protection ultimately lies in their preparation. The ability to identify potential dangers, analyze an operational environment, secure movements, or protect communications can be life-changing in the field. Safety is not a barrier to journalism; today, it is an absolute prerequisite.“

Larissa Ndjakomo, a participant in the program, articulated how the security training addresses a very real and pressing need. She reflected, “We often concentrate intensely on producing information, without always fully grasping the risks we expose ourselves to. This day allowed me to acquire practical reflexes that I will undoubtedly apply during my future assignments. I leave feeling better prepared and significantly more confident.“

The Yaoundé training marks the third in a series of vital sessions being conducted across all ten regions of Cameroon. This broader effort falls under the Cameroun Média Plus project, an initiative implemented by the International Federation of Journalists with the overarching goal of fostering a media environment that is safer, more professional, and ultimately more resilient.