By D. Solomon Tayblah / Voice of Gbarpolu
BOPOLU CITY, Gbarpolu County – The Western Region Journalists Association (WReJA) is set to host its highly anticipated second General Assembly, themed “Building the Future through Empowering Voices”. The program runs from November 21-23, 2024, in Bopolu City.
The three-day event will gather over 100 journalists from ten-member radio stations and freelancers across Gbarpolu, Bomi, and Cape Mount counties, alongside facilitators, guests, and partners dedicated to advancing the field of journalism.
A Platform for Dialogue and Growth
At the heart of this assembly is a commitment to fostering dialogue about WReJA’s achievements, challenges, and future aspirations. Meloshe Roberts, Chairperson of WReJA, said “This is not just an event; it’s a vital platform for us to reflect on our progress and set actionable goals for the future. Together, we can elevate journalism to new heights.”
He said that the event will start on November 21, 2024 with arrival day in Bopolu City, followed by a lively street parade that celebrates the spirit of journalism and indoor program on Friday, November 22, 2024.
The final day will focus on enriching training sessions, led by esteemed professionals such as Torwom Soluted Brown, Senior Journalism Trainer from Internews in Liberia, Atty. Alpha Deffae Senkpeni, Executive Director of Local Voice Media Network and journalist Richlue Burphy.
Key topics will include essential skills like fact-checking, solutions journalism, and reporting on local development issues, WReJA boss said.
Launching a Vision for the Future
During the press briefing in Bopolu City, Mr. Roberts disclosed that a significant highlight of this assembly will be the launch of a fundraising initiative for the construction of a sustainable Regional Media Complex in Tubmanburg City at the of cost $325,000.
“This complex is crucial for enhancing our capabilities,” Roberts said, “It will provide administrative office space and support essential training programs, outreach initiatives, and community engagement efforts.”
The proposed complex will feature a conference hall designed for both refresher training sessions and various events, generating revenue that directly supports WReJA’s mission.
Additionally, Meloshe said the guest house, when completed, will be composed of ten self-contained rooms that will offer accommodations for visiting journalists, trainers and other partners, further establishing WReJA as a hub for media excellence in Liberia.
A Call for Collaboration and Support
The assembly is made possible by the support of the Liberia Revenue Authority, Internews in Liberia, and membership dues from WReJA members. Roberts expressed gratitude for this support during his recent visit to Bopolu.
While in the host City, he said that the assembly will also welcome influential stakeholders, including the Western Region’s Legislative Caucus including Lawmakers from Gbarpolu, Bomi, and Cape Mount counties and partners such as Internews in Liberia and the Press Union of Liberia (PUL).
Meanwhile, the WReJA Chairperson urges potential donors and partners to join in this vital effort: “We need your support to build a sustainable future for journalism in Western Liberia,” he said, “Together, we can create a lasting impact.”
Established in 2023, WReJA represents the interests of journalists committed to serving the public interest across Gbarpolu, Bomi, and Grand Cape Mount counties. As we gather in Bopolu, let us harness our voices to advocate for truth, accountability, and progress.
Empowering Our Future
Join us for the WReJA Second General Assembly, where each voice matters, and every action counts. Together, we can build a brighter future for journalism in Western Liberia.
For more information and to support our vision, please reach out to WReJA today via wrejaliberia@gmail.com / +231880228291 / +231775028067
