Empowering West Africa’s Environmental Journalists: Apply for the 2026 CJID Storytelling Fellowship

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in collaboration with the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), has announced an exceptional opportunity for environmental journalists across West Africa. This six‑month storytelling fellowship is designed to strengthen investigative reporting on violence against environmental journalists, enhance professional capacity, and support the publication of impactful stories that meet international standards.

Environmental journalism remains one of the most critical yet high‑risk fields in the media landscape. Reporters covering environmental degradation, illegal mining, pollution, land conflicts, and climate‑related issues often face threats, intimidation, and violence. This fellowship aims to address these challenges by equipping journalists with the tools, mentorship, and institutional support needed to document and expose attacks on environmental reporters.

About the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)

CJID is a leading West African media innovation and development think tank committed to advancing investigative journalism, media literacy, elections, human rights, and journalist safety. As a non‑governmental organisation, CJID works to promote democratic accountability, inclusive governance, and sustainable development across Africa. Its programs empower journalists with the skills, resources, and networks needed to produce high‑quality, impactful reporting.

About the Fellowship

The CJID–UNESCO GMDF Storytelling Fellowship is a six‑month program running from July 2026 to December 2026. It focuses on strengthening the capacity of environmental journalists to investigate and report cases of violence against environmental reporters. Fellows will receive training, mentorship, editorial support, and opportunities for publication and dissemination of their stories.

Core Objectives of the Fellowship

1. Provide training and mentorship for journalists reporting attacks against environmental reporters.
2. Strengthen investigative reporting capacity, enabling journalists to uncover and document cases of violence.
3. Support the production and publication of high‑quality stories on violence against environmental journalists.
4. Ensure dissemination of work in alignment with international reporting standards.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 8 June 2026
• Fellowship Duration: July 2026 – December 2026

Applicants must ensure that all required materials are submitted before the deadline.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must complete and submit the application form by Monday, 8 June 2026. Applicants will be required to provide:

• Full name
• Gender
• Contact email
• Phone number (with country code)
• Country of residence
• Links to professional or social media platforms

Applicants should also ensure that all seven sections of the form are completed before submission.

Selection Process

Applications will undergo a thorough review by CJID and its partners. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process. Only shortlisted applicants will receive follow‑up communication.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Environmental journalists play a vital role in exposing environmental crimes, advocating for climate justice, and protecting natural resources. However, they often face threats that hinder their work. This fellowship provides:

• A safe platform for journalists to document violence
• Professional mentorship from experienced investigative reporters
• Opportunities to publish stories with regional and international reach
• Skills that strengthen long‑term career growth in environmental journalism

This initiative is a significant step toward protecting press freedom and amplifying the voices of journalists working in high‑risk environmental contexts.

 

For more information about this opportunity and to apply visit here

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