By Ibrahim Abode

A select group of journalists from Ghana, Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, Liberia, and Guinea have completed a comprehensive digital security training organised by DW Akademie in partnership with the Whistleblowers, Activists, and Journalists Safety International Coalition (WAJSIC).

The capacity-building programme was designed to strengthen the participants’ ability to protect their data, sources, and digital identities amid increasing online threats faced by media professionals and activists across the subregion.

Throughout the interactive sessions, participants were exposed to modern tools and strategies for safeguarding their communications, handling sensitive information, and responding to cyberattacks.

They lauded the organisers for their foresight in addressing one of the most pressing challenges confronting journalism today. “This programme has been eye-opening. We’ve learnt vital techniques to enhance our safety and that of our sources in the digital space,” one participant noted.

The training reached its peak with an engaging session led by internationally acclaimed investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who shared real-world insights and best practices on maintaining digital safety in investigative reporting.

This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting safer, more resilient journalism in West Africa, empowering media practitioners to continue their watchdog role with confidence and security.