The Office of the Ombudsman in collaboration with the Legal Aid Forum (LAF), conducted a specialized training session for journalists on investigative reporting on December 17, 2024, as part of efforts to combat corruption. The event aimed to empower media professionals with the skills and tools necessary to uncover corruption and hold those in power accountable.
Rwanda’s Ombudsman, Madeleine Nirere emphasized the critical role of journalists in the fight against corruption during her opening remarks. “The media is the most powerful weapon against corruption. Without your vigilance and commitment, corruption will continue to thrive in the shadows.”
Rwanda’s Ombudsman, Madeleine Nirere
The Ombudsman underscored the importance of investigative journalism in exposing wrongdoing and ensuring accountability. She said the work of journalists can make a real and lasting impact.
“By investigating and reporting on corruption, you contribute to building a society where justice, integrity, and transparency prevail,” Nirere told journalists in the training.
The training provided journalists with valuable insights into the legal frameworks governing corruption-related reporting and offered guidance on navigating ethical challenges. Journalists and legal professionals engaged in discussions about best practices, shared experiences, and explored tools for effective investigative reporting.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Ombudsman’s office on this training,” sremarked counsel Andrews Kananga, the Executive Director of LAF. “It’s a reminder of how crucial ethical reporting is in combating corruption. Together, we can empower journalists to tackle corruption head-on and ensure their work is both accurate and insightful.”
Andrews Kananga, the Executive Director of Legal Aid Forum (LAF)
While corruption remains a serious challenge, the event also highlighted that many journalists face difficulties in pursuing these investigations. Limited resources in newsrooms often prevent deeper dives into corruption cases.
The 2024 Rwanda Bribery Index found that 92% of people asked for bribes don’t report it, mostly due to fear of retaliation.
Jean Bosco Rushingabigwi, Head of Media at the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), acknowledged these challenges. He said efforts are underway to encourage journalists to take on more investigative work. A recent report from RGB found that 83.1% of the public trusts the media to fight corruption, showing the important role journalists play in this ongoing battle.
The Ombudsman emphasized that tackling corruption is a collective effort. “We need all hands on deck,” she said. “Journalists are not just observers but active participants in ensuring a corruption-free Rwanda.”
Rwanda is making progress in the fight against corruption, ranking 43rd globally and 1st in East Africa. However, the Ombudsman’s office is determined to push further. Their goal is to lead the world in the fight against corruption by 2050. For that to happen, journalists must step up and continue to expose corruption at all levels.
As the training wrapped up, Nirere again urged the media to stay focused on the truth. “Corruption has no place in our future,” she said. “Together, we can make sure it doesn’t stand a chance.”
