Russian broadcaster, Sputnik, drills CNA reporters on countering fake news
By Nchendzengang Tatah
Reporters of Cameroon’s leading English online news media, Cameroon News Agency (CNA), counting nearly 500 thousand followers, were empowered with tips on June 2, 2025, by the Russian public broadcaster, Sputnik, on fact-based reporting despite the wide prevalence of misinformation. This was in response to the current political context of the country, marked by presidential elections in a few months, October.
The training, which lasted one and a half hours online, brought together CNA reporters, most of whom are based in Africa, specifically in Cameroon, and other reporters from sites like Mimi Mefo Info. Some 15 journalists took part in the training.
The CNA Executive Editor, Nfor Hanson Nchanji, said the training was crucial and the skills indispensable. “As we look ahead to the 2025 presidential elections, the stakes become even higher. This period, crucial for our nation’s democratic future, will inevitably be a target for those who seek to manipulate public discourse through deceit,” he said.
Further, noting that the media, if not well monitored, may be instrumentalised by politicians to realize unethical aims. One that poses a serious threat to the integrity of journalism and the nation’s well-being.
“The potential for politically motivated fake news to influence voters, spread divisive rhetoric, and destabilize the electoral process is a real and present danger. It is our collective responsibility, as purveyors of news and guardians of truth, to ensure that our citizens are equipped with accurate, verified information to make informed decisions,” the senior editor stated.
Officials of the Russian-owned news media were elated at the exchanges, which were facilitated by a Nigerian-born, Russian-based Sputnik newsman, Aliyu Bello Garba. They described the training to have been ideal in fostering the guide against the spread of untrue information. They also expressed satisfaction at the mastery of the journalism realities in this part of the world by the CNA reporters while saluting the eagerness the participants showed in acquiring intellectual skills.
“I can conclude that Cameroonian journalists are very eager to have such training, but they lack the opportunities. Sputnik has promised that it will continue to be a good partner in the future,” a member of the Russian broadcaster said.
CNA has remained at the centre of unfoldings in Cameroon, especially from the two Anglophone regions of the North West and South West. Its practice is built on the bold and responsible transmission of information to the masses despite the tight press laws, growing insecurity, and rapidly spreading misinformation.
