CJID/UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund Storytelling Fellowship for Environmental Journalists in West Africa 2026

The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), in partnership with the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), is offering a six-month storytelling fellowship. This program is designed for environmental journalists in West Africa. It aims to build their skills in investigative reporting, particularly concerning violence against environmental reporters. The fellowship will support journalists in producing, publishing, and sharing their stories according to international standards.

Fellowship Objectives

The primary goal of this fellowship is to empower journalists to investigate and report on critical issues affecting environmental reporters. The program focuses on several key areas to achieve this:

• Training and Mentorship: Participants will receive specialized training and guidance from experienced professionals. This support is specifically for journalists who report on attacks against their peers in the environmental beat.
• Investigative Reporting Skills: The fellowship will strengthen participants’ abilities to conduct in-depth, investigative journalism. This includes learning techniques for gathering evidence, verifying information, and building compelling narratives.
• Story Production: Journalists will be supported in producing high-quality stories that highlight cases of violence against environmental reporters. This involves providing resources and editorial support throughout the creation process.
• Dissemination: A key component is ensuring that the produced work reaches a wide audience and adheres to international reporting standards. This includes guidance on publishing and promoting stories effectively.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the CJID/UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund Storytelling Fellowship, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Professional Journalists: Applicants must be professional journalists currently working and residing in one of the eligible West African countries. These countries include Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
• Encouraged Applicants: The fellowship particularly encourages applications from freelance or independent journalists. Female journalists are also strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the field.

Application Process

Interested candidates should follow a straightforward application process to be considered for this opportunity:

• Online Application: Applications must be submitted through an online form. Prospective fellows are advised to carefully fill out all required sections of the form.
• Deadline: The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, June 8, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
• Selection: All submitted applications will undergo a thorough review process. Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted by the organizing committee for the next steps in the selection procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions