The event comes amid growing concerns over potential tensions and unrest, with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) previously expressing worries about threats, arrests and safety of journalists.
The session handled modules such as digital safety, hostile environment reporting, and emergency response.
It is part of efforts by the Gambia Press Union (GPU) to promote journalist safety, especially for women journalists who face additional risks like sexual harassment and online abuse.
GPU Secretary General Modou S. Joof outlined the union’s long-standing commitment to the safety of journalists.
“Over the years, the GPU has trained journalists on safety. This particular training is all about ensuring the safety of journalists ahead of the 2026 elections and 2027 as well,” Joof said.
He urged participants to put the lessons into practice, reminding that knowledge alone without application is not enough, especially during moments of tension.
“It’s not always easy. I have several points to remember. There are skills that we gained here that you must never forget. Never forget your training,” he added.
Joof also called on the journalists to maintain emotional control when covering volatile situations.
The lead trainer, Mr. Sang Mendy, highlighted the program’s importance in building both competence and the right mindset.
“This training is very important. Those journalists who attended were equipped with the requisite skills, knowledge, understanding, and even the right attitude to cover a protest, a violent press conference, to assess the situation, analyze it, and come up with a mitigation plan.” he said.
He thus called on donors and partners to support the expansion of similar programmes, saying such training requires significant resources.
Similarly, participants at the event, described the training as impactful and timely as the country faces its election calendar.
He equally called on GPU to include the basic First-aid training in their activities for the well-being of the journalists and the betterment of the Union.
These safety concerns, he observed, are not unique to The Gambia as journalists across Africa face risks of torture, police brutality, kidnapping, and murder while doing their jobs.
Organisations like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and UNESCO are working to promote journalists’ safety, especially during elections.
The Gambia has seen instances of journalist harassment and arrests, particularly during protests and coverage of sensitive issues.
The Gambia Press Union has raised concerns over these incidents, emphasising the need for press freedom.
