Empowering West African Environmental Journalists: The 2026 CJID Storytelling Fellowship

Environmental journalism is a vital field, bringing to light critical issues like pollution, illegal mining, and the impacts of climate change. However, journalists working in this area often face significant risks, including threats and violence, which can silence important investigations. Recognizing this challenge, the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in partnership with the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), has launched the 2026 CJID Storytelling Fellowship. This program offers a six-month opportunity for environmental journalists across West Africa to strengthen their investigative skills and report on the dangers faced by their peers.

The fellowship aims to build the capacity of journalists to investigate and report on violence against environmental reporters. It provides essential training, mentorship, and editorial support, helping journalists produce high-quality stories that meet international standards. By offering a safe platform and professional guidance, this initiative seeks to protect press freedom and amplify the voices of those reporting on environmental matters in high-risk regions.

About the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) is a leading think tank in West Africa dedicated to advancing investigative journalism and media literacy. As a non-governmental organization, CJID focuses on promoting democratic accountability, inclusive governance, and sustainable development throughout Africa. Their programs are designed to equip journalists with the necessary skills, resources, and connections to produce impactful and high-quality reporting. CJID is committed to journalist safety and works to empower media professionals to tackle complex issues effectively.

The CJID-UNESCO GMDF Storytelling Fellowship

This six-month fellowship, running from July to December 2026, is specifically designed to support environmental journalists. Its primary goal is to enhance the ability of journalists to investigate and report on cases of violence directed at environmental reporters. Fellows will benefit from targeted training sessions, personalized mentorship from experienced investigative journalists, and editorial assistance to refine their work. The program also provides opportunities for the publication and wider dissemination of their stories, ensuring their work reaches a broader audience.

Core Objectives of the Fellowship

The fellowship is structured around several key objectives to ensure its effectiveness:

Training and Mentorship: Providing journalists with specialized training and guidance on how to investigate and report attacks against environmental reporters.
Strengthening Investigative Capacity: Equipping journalists with the skills and tools needed to uncover, document, and analyze cases of violence effectively.
Supporting Story Production: Offering editorial and practical support for the creation and publication of high-quality journalistic pieces focused on violence against environmental journalists.
Ensuring Dissemination: Facilitating the sharing of the fellows’ work in a manner that aligns with international reporting standards and maximizes impact.

Key Dates and Application Process

Journalists interested in this opportunity should take note of the important dates. The application deadline is set for June 8, 2026. The fellowship itself will take place over six months, from July 2026 to December 2026.

To apply, interested candidates must complete an online application form by the deadline. The form requires essential details such as full name, gender, contact information (email and phone number with country code), and country of residence. Applicants are also asked to provide links to their professional or social media platforms. It is important that all seven sections of the application form are fully completed before submission to ensure the application is considered.

Selection Process and Fellowship Benefits

Applications will be carefully reviewed by CJID and its partners. Candidates who meet the initial criteria will be shortlisted and contacted for the next steps in the selection process. Only those who are shortlisted will receive further communication regarding their application status.

The fellowship offers several significant benefits to participants. It provides a secure environment for journalists to document instances of violence they or their colleagues have experienced. Fellows receive professional mentorship from seasoned investigative reporters, which is invaluable for developing advanced reporting techniques. Furthermore, the program offers opportunities to publish stories through regional and international outlets, increasing their visibility and impact. The skills gained during the fellowship are designed to strengthen a journalist’s long-term career in environmental reporting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the 2026 CJID Storytelling Fellowship?

The fellowship aims to improve the ability of West African environmental journalists to investigate and report on violence faced by their peers.

Who is organizing this fellowship?

The fellowship is organized by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) in partnership with the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF).