Investigative journalism in Burkina Faso

In journalistic parlance, the concept of writing up means presenting an investigation in an attractive way and reporting it by 'staging' the information whilst ensuring that the range of different perspectives, opinions and comments on a given issue are all represented.
In all, ten journalists attended this week-long training course, which was led jointly by journalist Eric le Braz, CFI trainer Koffi Ametepe and UNALFA (Burkina Faso's national union of free audiovisual media outlets). The course sought to teach the participants how to perfect their skills and further increase their professionalism in writing up investigations that had begun several months ago.

The week got underway with the screening of an educational video on investigative journalism presented by Edwy Plenel, the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the French newspaper Médiapart.

The journalists then honed their expertise with Jacques Monin, the creator of Secrets d'infos, the magazine show of Radio France's Investigation Division.

“Secrets d'infos is a benchmark in radio investigative journalism. Jacques Monin provided his unique insight in how to report a complex investigation to the masses. He encouraged the participants to persevere, even though they didn't have the resources of Radio France: anyone can conduct a meticulous investigation, so long as they are tenacious and methodical!"
Éric Le Braz, journalist and CFI expert.

Koffi Ametepe, CFI trainer at the training workshops.

One of the keys to effective investigative journalism is the ability to work closely with civil society organisations

On the final day of the training course, the participants exchanged thoughts and ideas with AMR (Association Monde Rural, an association focusing on rural issues), Dr Sourwema Kassem, a specialist in public-led initiatives, Roukiattou Ouédraogo, the Communications and Advocacy Office for the SPONG collective (Burkina Faso's Permanent Secretariat of NGOs) and Smockey, the joint founder of Balai Citoyen, a movement having its roots in civil society in Burkina Faso (literally meaning 'Citizens' Broom').

In the vast majority of cases, CSOs are the best allies that an investigative journalist could have.

They demonstrated this once again at this meeting, with the information that they provided proving to be key in bringing many investigations to a successful conclusion - Case Closed!

Presentation of certificates by activist Smockey.