IGAD to Train Journalists, Promote Free Movement Protocol Across IGAD States
IGAD Officials and UJOSS in a meeting.
Credit: Juba Echo TV
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) plans to strengthen public awareness of its Free Movement Protocol by training journalists and rolling out media campaigns across the region.
Speaking during a discussion on Thursday, Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS) President, Patrick Oyet said journalists have a critical role in helping citizens understand the benefits of the protocol through accurate reporting and public education.
Oyet said IGAD will organize capacity-building workshops for journalists, produce public service announcements (PSAs), social media content, and radio and television programmes aimed at improving public understanding of the free movement protocol.
He noted that the protocol is expected to boost labor migration, attract investment, encourage skills transfer among IGAD member states, and facilitate remittances, which remain an important source of income and development for South Sudan.
Oyet emphasized that language remains an important consideration in communicating the protocol, noting that information should be presented in ways that are easily understood by diverse communities across the region.
He said the protocol has the potential to boost remittances to South Sudan by making it easier for citizens to seek employment in other IGAD countries.
According to Oyet, remittances remain a key driver of development and household incomes in the country.
He added that the protocol could also promote labour migration, attract investment, and facilitate the transfer of skills and knowledge among citizens of IGAD member states, contributing to regional economic integration and sustainable development.
Oyet urged journalists to embrace their role in informing the public accurately and responsibly to ensure citizens fully understand the opportunities and responsibilities associated with the IGAD Free Movement Protocol.
