Ethics and Inclusion: Reshaping Environmental Journalism in Rwanda

Environmental journalists in Rwanda build specialized reporting skills at training events that link awareness of disability rights to environmental protection needs.
The Rwanda Environmental Journalists (REJ) operated at their Kicukiro District headquarters to deliver targeted ethical and inclusive environmental reporting training between January 27 and 29, 2025. Throughout the three-day workshop, journalists deepened their understanding of how environmental issues and climate change affect people with albinism, enhancing their reporting capabilities on these connected topics.
Dr. Nicodeme Hakizimana from the Organization for Integration and Promotion of People with Albinism (OIPPA) guided discussions on the environmental impact on disabilities. He emphasized that “environment and human beings” are inseparable. Dr. Hakizimana also explored the origins of albinism, maternal experiences in caring for albinistic children, and appropriate language for discussing disabilities.
Eugene Hagabimana led a session on journalistic ethics, demonstrating that environmental reporting requires absolute truth, precision, and balance. He urged journalists to prioritize public welfare over personal financial gain.
Participants visited OIPPA, where they heard firsthand accounts from the albinism community about harassment and the skin effects of climate change. The seminar reinforced the importance of higher-quality environmental reporting for better conservation outcomes.
Journalists left with new perspectives on both albinism and ethics. Ntagara Delphine, one of the participants, said: “Through my learning experience, I discovered that active environmental activism should include tree planting because it enhances the quality of life for people with albinism. Their rights must be protected from harassment, and they deserve equal opportunities.”
The workshop provided journalists with professional skills to report on the intersection of disability protection and environmental issues. Expert guidance and participant experiences expanded their knowledge of inclusive, ethical reporting. It inspired them to amplify overlooked voices and advocate for universal environmental approaches.
Supported by FOJO Media Institute, this program strengthens Rwanda’s media sector by promoting independence, professionalism, and sustainability among key media players.

By:Eduque Isingizwe, East African University Rwanda Student