Gombe: The Rotary International initiative on Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health, RMNCH, has trained journalists in Gombe State on solution-based journalism to help promote the use of healthcare services and reduce maternal and child mortality. The workshop focused on equipping journalists with the skills to report from a constructive angle, encouraging public awareness and collaboration with government efforts in the healthcare sector.
According to Voice of Nigeria, participants were trained on data journalism, forecasting, sourcing information beyond official channels, and the use of Mobile Journalism, MOJO tools for effective field reporting. Speaking during the training, Rotary RMNCH Programme Officer, Mr. Toyosin Adebambo, stated that the workshop was designed to empower journalists to report in ways that inspire positive change and public engagement, rather than confrontation.
Mr. Adebambo emphasized the need for journalists to report the availability of free maternal and child health services provided by the government-services that many in the public are unaware of. He noted that Rotary is currently supporting 27 health facilities across Gombe State, and public awareness of this support is vital to increase the use of those services.
Mr. Adebambo highlighted the collaborative reporting model, urging journalists to produce individual and collective stories, including panel discussions featuring government representatives, to foster open dialogue and information sharing. He also underscored the importance of recognizing healthcare workers for their efforts, noting that public acknowledgment can boost morale and motivate better service delivery.
Rotary’s RMNCH programme is currently being implemented in three local government areas in Gombe State: Gombe, Kaltungo, and Yamaltu Deba.