By: Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
Liberia has officially joined a growing continental movement aimed at strengthening media advocacy on health and environmental issues with the launch of the Liberia Chapter of the African Media Network for the Promotion of Health and the Environment (REMAPSEN).
The launch, held in Monrovia, brought together representatives of government ministries and agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and media institutions.
Speaking at the event, National Coordinator of REMAPSEN Liberia, Ms. Rita Jlogbe, described the establishment of the network as a major milestone for the country’s media and public awareness landscape.
Ms. Jlogbe explained that REMAPSEN, founded in Côte d’Ivoire on June 13, 2020, was created to address critical gaps in the reporting of health and environmental issues across Africa. What began as a network of 28 journalists in 17 countries has now expanded to 40 countries, with Liberia officially joining the continental platform.
“Our mission is to ensure that every Liberian, especially women and children, has access to information that is accurate, timely, and actionable,” she said. “We envision a Liberia where the media does not only report problems, but empowers people to become part of the solution.”
She noted that although the launch marks the formal introduction of REMAPSEN Liberia, members of the network have already been actively reporting on key issues, including gender-based violence, public health concerns, and environmental challenges.
REMAPSEN Liberia, National Coordinator has encouraged the public to engage with the network’s work through its Facebook page, “Remapsen Liberia.”
Ms. Jlogbe emphasized that REMAPSEN Liberia is a national network with over 20 media practitioners operating beyond Monrovia, including in Grand Bassa, Maryland, Margibi, Bong, Nimba, and Gbarpolu Counties.
According to her, the goal is to ensure that accurate health and environmental information reaches communities across the country.
She expressed gratitude to UN Women for supporting the launch, UNICEF for ongoing collaboration on other initiatives, and the Press Union of Liberia for hosting the event.
Further using the occasion to called on partners to support the network through training opportunities, sponsorship, and collaboration, including access to expert opinions for evidence-based reporting.
Ms. Jlogbe is urging unity among journalists and partners, stressing that through collaboration and responsible reporting, REMAPSEN Liberia can contribute to building a healthier, more informed, and sustainable future for Liberia.
