How would you describe investigative journalism in French-speaking Africa today? That's the question Ekolab asked itself.
In countries where political forces exert real pressure and where resources are lacking, investigative journalism struggles to develop. Investigative work is dangerous.
However, it is necessary, even crucial, to encourage the development of investigative journalism. To do so, it is clear that local skills must be developed.
To strengthen this journalistic practice, the Beninese non-profit organization Ekôlab has chosen to implement a project to experiment with investigative journalism in Benin through local media education.
"Ekôlab aims to be a laboratory for investigative journalism and media education in Benin and West Africa. Ekôlab's mission is to publish investigations/feature stories on social issues that affect isolated populations."
The project will focus on three main areas: training, investigation, and media education. This three-pronged approach will enable young journalists to get a foot in the door and move toward investigating complex issues.
With this in mind, Ekôlab is launching a call for applications open to journalists in Benin. This is the first call for applications launched by the organization, which is partly headed by Sinatou Saka, a journalist in charge of podcasts and editorial projects at RFI – France 24.
What's at stake?
- training in investigative journalism;
- mentoring and a network to conduct an investigation in collaboration with other journalists;
- a limited number of grants to conduct and publish investigations
- ongoing support to develop future investigations for your career development.
Find out more