Rabat: FAAPA has trained 25 reporters from African Press Agencies to improve their techniques in photojournalism. The five-day training seminar, organized by the Atlantic Federation of African Press Agencies (FAAPA) at the African Center for the Training of Journalists (CAFJ) in Rabat, Morocco, focused on the theme: ‘Mastering Photojournalism’.

According to Ghana News Agency, the training aimed to enhance the knowledge of photojournalists and to build their theoretical and practical capacities in photojournalism. It also provided a platform for participants to share experiences and discuss challenges facing photojournalists in Africa.

The program was led by experts in the field who provided theoretical presentations and encouraged participants to refine their techniques and develop professionalism. The training allowed participants to deepen their understanding and skills, with the goal of contributing to the development of media libraries at their respective press agencies, thereby improving photo technology.

In an interview with some of the experts, Badji Boubacar, a facilitator and lecturer at the University of Sheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) in Senegal, emphasized the unique storytelling power of photos. He noted that in a visually driven world, where images dominate information consumption, the role of photojournalism is crucial. He highlighted the importance of maintaining credibility in the digital age, where social media and smartphones have made storytelling more accessible.

Mr. Arnauid Thierry Gouegnon, an expert photojournalist and facilitator from C´te d’Ivoire, reiterated the importance of photojournalism in documenting reality and shaping perceptions. He encouraged photojournalists to use their new knowledge to improve visual storytelling, emphasizing the need to evoke emotions and forge connections.

Additionally, Mr. Mohammed Chamali, the former Chief of Photo Desk at Agence Maghreb Arabe Press (MAP), spoke about the responsibilities that come with the powerful reach of photojournalism. He stressed the need for photojournalists to balance documenting reality with respecting the dignity of their subjects.

FAAPA, a network of African journalists and media organizations, aims to promote press freedom, ethical journalism, and the professional development of journalists across the continent. The organization offers training programs to enhance the skills of African journalists and strives to create a more vibrant, independent, and sustainable media landscape in Africa.