A two-day training session was held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from September 28 to October 1, 2026, at the Burkinabé Agency for Cinematography and Audiovisual (ABCA). The training, organized by the Burkinabé Atomic Energy Agency (ABEA) in partnership with the Ministry of Communication, brought together over 40 journalists, communicators, and media directors. The aim was to educate participants on the significance of atomic energy, its challenges, and the mission of ABEA.
During the training, participants gained insights into the role of nuclear technologies in socio-economic development, the nuclear power program, job opportunities, nuclear law, and nuclear safety and security. They also learned how to combat misinformation and understand scientific terms such as incident and accident, safety and security. This training aimed to equip journalists and communicators with the skills to disseminate accurate information about nuclear and atomic energy without causing unnecessary concern among the population.
Drissa Modeste Sessouma, representing the Director-General of ABEA, emphasized that communication on atomic energy must be fact-based and balanced to avoid panicking the population. He cited the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) motto, "Atom for Peace, for Peace and Development," highlighting the potential of nuclear technologies to contribute to health, agriculture, water management, industry, and energy.
The training also aimed to establish a network of journalists committed to rigorous, responsible, and accessible reporting on nuclear issues. An assembly was held to elect participants to join the network, and a bureau was formed with David Saba as President. As President of the network, David Saba has expressed his commitment to promoting accurate information about atomic energy.
David Saba has already addressed a pressing issue, warning the public about a false video circulating on social media claiming that a nuclear power plant is under construction in Burkina Faso. He emphasized that the network's goal is to share accurate information about nuclear energy.
The Burkinabé Atomic Energy Agency (ABEA) plays a crucial role in developing and implementing national policies and strategies in the nuclear field. Its mission includes contributing to the development of nuclear science and technology, aligning with the country's priorities for a sovereign and resilient Burkina Faso.
The training session has equipped journalists and communicators with the knowledge and skills to report accurately on atomic energy, promoting a better understanding of its benefits and challenges. The newly established network will play a vital role in disseminating accurate information and countering misinformation on nuclear energy.
Key points
- The training session was organized by ABEA in partnership with the Ministry of Communication to educate journalists and communicators on atomic energy.
- The training covered topics such as nuclear technologies, nuclear power programs, and nuclear safety and security.
- A network of journalists was established to promote accurate reporting on nuclear energy.
