A training session was held in Parakou, Benin, on October 28, 2026, for young journalists. The session was led by Fayçal Dramane, a journalist with Matin Libre, and Hayaath B. Fousseni, president of WANROU. The training focused on the challenges of information in the digital age. It aimed to strengthen the skills of media professionals in fact-checking and responsible handling of information. The initiative was a collaboration between WANROU and Matin Libre.
The training highlighted the importance of distinguishing between receiving information and verifying it. Fayçal Dramane emphasized the need for journalists to be cautious when handling information. He outlined three phenomena that undermine the information ecosystem: disinformation, misinformation and malinformation. Dramane stressed that verifying facts is essential to maintaining the credibility of journalistic productions. He provided tips on how to verify information, including examining available evidence and consulting independent sources.
Hayaath B. Fousseni also contributed to the training. She emphasized the importance of reliable sources and collaboration between media professionals and civil society organizations. Fousseni noted that these actors have different roles but share a common goal: to provide citizens with accurate information and promote responsible governance. She encouraged journalists to work with rigor, responsibility and a commitment to the public interest.
The training also covered the responsible use of artificial intelligence in journalism. Fayçal Dramane and Hayaath B. Fousseni warned against the risks of manipulation associated with AI-generated content. They stressed that AI should not be used as a substitute for human judgment and critical thinking. Journalists were advised to use AI as a tool to support their work, but not to rely solely on it for information.
The session included discussions on the importance of media monitoring of public action. Fayçal Dramane provided explanations on the concepts of policy, public policy, public action and politics. He helped participants understand how to analyze public decisions and commitments. The training aimed to equip journalists with the skills to monitor public action effectively.
The training was part of a project to strengthen the capacities of journalists in Benin. It followed a similar session organized by Banouto and FIAP from October 14 to 16, 2026. WANROU and Fayçal Dramane hope to contribute to the emergence of a new generation of journalists who are better equipped to handle the challenges of the digital environment.
The participants appreciated the training and pledged to apply the knowledge acquired in their professional work. They recognized the importance of a journalism based on ethics, rigor and responsibility. The training is expected to contribute to the promotion of reliable and credible information in Benin.
Key points
- Journalists in Benin have been trained on the responsible use of artificial intelligence and fact-checking.
- The training aimed to strengthen the skills of media professionals in handling information responsibly.
- The initiative was a collaboration between WANROU and Matin Libre.
