WANEP Strengthens Journalists’ Capacity on Data-Driven and Gender-Sensitive Reporting in the Extractive Sector

On 17 February 2026, the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP) facilitated a training session in Accra, Ghana, as part of the Africa Extractives Media Fellowship (AEMF), organised by NewsWire Africa. The training focused on strengthening journalists’ capacity for data-driven and gender-sensitive reporting on issues in Africa’s extractive sector, particularly illegal mining.

The session brought together AEMF fellows to deepen their understanding of evidence-based reporting on extractive industries. It was facilitated by Dr. Festus K. Aubyn, WANEP’s Regional Coordinator for Research and Capacity Building, and Edward Jombla, WANEP’s Regional Coordinator for Early Warning.

Discussions highlighted how data and analysis can enhance investigative reporting, while also exploring the gender dimensions of illegal mining in West Africa, including the diverse roles women play and the specific challenges they face within the mining economy. The training further strengthened participants’ skills in data-driven reporting, deepened awareness of gender dynamics, and promoted conflict-sensitive approaches to covering extractive sector issues.

Participants gained practical insights into using data to improve transparency and accountability in reporting. They also developed a clearer understanding of women’s roles in the illegal mining economy and the importance of applying conflict-sensitive perspectives, with WANEP bringing added analytical depth as a technical partner.

Following the session, fellows are expected to produce investigative and feature stories on extractive sector governance, community impacts, and gender inclusion. WANEP will continue to support the fellowship through technical inputs and knowledge sharing.

WANEP commends NewsWire Africa for spearheading the Africa Extractives Media Fellowship, a capacity-building initiative that supports early- to mid-career journalists to produce impactful stories that advance transparency, accountability, and sustainable resource governance in Africa’s extractive industries.