EJN Virtual Media Workshop on Mining, Environment and Human Rights Reporting in Africa 2026

Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is offering a virtual media workshop for journalists in Ghana, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and South Africa. This workshop, running from November 3-5, 2026, aims to improve reporting skills on mining, environmental issues, and human rights in Africa. Applications are open until September 6, 2026.

Application Closing Date: September 6, 2026
Location: Virtual (Ghana, Uganda, DRC, South Africa)
Programme Duration: 3 days (November 3-5, 2026)
Stipend: Limited communications stipends available for those with unstable internet.
Minimum Qualification: Working understanding of English or French.

About the EJN Virtual Media Workshop

This workshop is designed to build the capacity of journalists and content creators to report effectively on the complex intersections of mining, the environment, and human rights across Africa. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of various mining types, their environmental impacts, and associated human rights concerns. The program focuses on equipping attendees with the knowledge and tools needed for in-depth investigative reporting.

The training will cover critical topics such as water, soil, and air contamination linked to mining activities, and how to access and analyze relevant data. It will also address land rights, community displacement, and the principle of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC). Journalists will learn about investigative techniques and safety protocols for reporting in potentially sensitive or conflict-affected areas.

The sessions will feature presentations and discussions led by experts including researchers, environmental scientists, mining law specialists, human rights advocates, and community representatives. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive learning experience, drawing on diverse perspectives and real-world experiences from the field.

About Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN)

Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is a program that supports a global network of journalists who cover environmental issues. EJN provides training, resources, and networking opportunities to help journalists produce high-quality, impactful stories that inform the public and drive change. Their work focuses on critical environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management.

EJN’s mission is to empower journalists to report on environmental and scientific issues with accuracy, depth, and impact. They work with journalists in various regions to enhance their understanding of complex topics and provide them with the tools and support needed to investigate and report on these stories effectively. This workshop is part of EJN’s ongoing commitment to improving environmental journalism in Africa.

Available Workshop Focus Areas

The virtual workshop will cover several key areas related to mining, environment, and human rights reporting:

• Understanding Mining Impacts: Exploring different types of mining (artisanal, small-scale, large-scale industrial, legal, and illegal) and their environmental consequences.
• Environmental Contamination: Learning about water, soil, and air pollution from mining, including the science behind it and data analysis for stories.
• Land Rights and Communities: Examining issues of land rights, community displacement, and the importance of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC).
• Safety and Security: Reviewing threats and risk mitigation strategies for physical and digital security when reporting on sensitive mining-related topics.
• Investigative Tools: Discovering investigative techniques and tools for covering the extractive industries effectively.

What the Workshop Offers

Successful participants will benefit from a range of valuable resources and opportunities designed to enhance their reporting skills and knowledge. The workshop aims to provide practical insights and professional development for journalists covering critical environmental and human rights issues.

• Enhanced Understanding: Gain deeper knowledge of the environmental and human rights impacts of mining activities.
• Investigative Skills: Learn advanced techniques for investigative journalism in the extractive sector.
• Expert Insights: Hear directly from scientists, legal experts, human rights advocates, and affected communities.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow journalists and experts in the field.
• Communications Stipends: A limited number of stipends are available to assist participants with internet costs if they face connectivity challenges in remote areas.
• Certificate of Completion: Participants who attend all sessions will receive a certificate from EJN.
• Story Grant Consideration: Receive special consideration for future story grants to produce journalistic content after the workshop.

Programme Duration and Location

This workshop will be conducted virtually over three days, from November 3 to November 5, 2026. As it is an online event, participants can join from their respective locations within Ghana, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or South Africa. The virtual format allows for broader accessibility, enabling journalists from these countries to participate without the need for travel.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this virtual media workshop, applicants must meet specific criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure participants can fully engage with and benefit from the training content and discussions.

• Citizenship/Residency: Applicants must be from Ghana, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), or South Africa.
• Language Proficiency: A working understanding of either English or French is required, as these are the languages of instruction and discussion. Applications will not be accepted in other languages.
• Professional Background: Applications are open to journalists working in any medium, including online, print, television, and radio. Social media content creators with relevant experience are also encouraged to apply.
• Experience: Applicants should have experience covering mining, environmental, and/or human rights issues.
• Freelance and Staff: Both freelance reporters and staff from community-based, local, national, and international media organizations are welcome.
• Encouraged Applicants: Women, rural, Indigenous, and early-career journalists are especially encouraged to apply.
• AI Transparency: Applicants must be transparent about the use of generative AI tools in their proposals. Submitting AI-generated content as one’s own may lead to disqualification.

Competencies Required

The workshop is looking for journalists and content creators who demonstrate a commitment to reporting on critical environmental and human rights issues. Key personal and professional qualities will help participants make the most of this learning opportunity and contribute meaningfully to discussions.

• Interest in the Topic: A strong interest in reporting on mining, environment, and human rights in Africa.
• Communication Skills: Ability to articulate ideas clearly and engage in discussions.
• Willingness to Learn: An open mind and eagerness to acquire new knowledge and skills.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to a virtual learning environment and new information.
• Professional Attitude: Maintaining a professional demeanor throughout the workshop.
• Commitment: Dedication to attending all sessions to gain the full benefit of the program.

Who Should Apply?

This virtual media workshop is ideal for journalists and content creators based in Ghana, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or South Africa who are passionate about covering the impacts of mining on the environment and human rights. It is particularly suited for those who want to deepen their understanding of these interconnected issues and improve their investigative reporting skills in this sector.

The program is especially beneficial for early-career journalists, women reporters, Indigenous journalists, and those working in rural areas who may have limited access to specialized training. If you are looking to enhance your ability to report on complex environmental and human rights stories related to mining, this workshop offers valuable insights and practical tools.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to prepare specific documents for their application. Ensuring all necessary documents are ready will streamline the application process and help present a strong case for participation.

• Updated CV: A current curriculum vitae outlining your professional experience and qualifications.
• Application Form: Complete the online application form accurately.
• AI Usage Disclosure: Be transparent about any use of generative AI tools in your application proposal.
• Proof of Work: Potentially provide samples of previous work related to mining, environment, or human rights reporting if requested.

Applicants should check the official application portal for any additional document requirements.

How to Apply

Interested journalists and content creators can apply for the EJN Virtual Media Workshop through the official application link. It is important to read the requirements carefully and prepare all necessary documents before starting the application process.

Click here to apply for the EJN Virtual Media Workshop on Mining, Environment and Human Rights Reporting in Africa 2026

Ensure all personal details are correct and that you have clearly stated your experience in covering mining, environmental, or human rights issues. Submit your application before the closing date of September 6, 2026.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants must meet all the minimum requirements to be considered for the workshop. Ensure your application is complete and submitted by the deadline. Be honest about any use of AI tools in your application.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications for the EJN Virtual Media Workshop on Mining, Environment and Human Rights Reporting in Africa 2026 is September 6, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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