Lokichar- December 17, 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)
At least fifteen county communication officers benefited from a two-day communications capacity building workshop in Lokichar, courtesy of VNG International.
The training was to build the capacity of the communication officers to understand and effectively communicate refugee-related matters, address the concerns of the host community, and promote harmonious co-existence through storytelling.
Turkana County, a region significantly impacted by the influx of refugees from neighboring countries, presents unique challenges and opportunities for both national and county governments. Therefore, effective communication on refugee-related issues is crucial not only for accurate representation but also for fostering harmonious co-existence.
The training ensures that communication officers are well-equipped to become agents of change. This is through objective reporting, cultural sensitivity, strengthened advocacy skills, and leveraging digital communication tools to disseminate accurate information and deescalate misinformation.
The training, which was very participatory and inclusive, focused on crisis communication, developing strategic social media and advocacy campaigns, developing press statements, press releases, fact sheets, and leveraging different digital communication tools to deescalate misinformation through verifiable data.
Moving forward, the communications team resolved to review their communication strategy and address the existing gaps, such as including refugee and host communities. They also agreed to refine their crisis communication strategies and advocacy campaign gaps towards being ready to inform when crisis calls.
Omar Yussuf, Director, Governor’s Press, stated that the training shared invaluable insights on identifying innovative approaches to amplify H.E. the Governor’s vision and convey his administration’s messaging.
“We look forward to sharing more impactful stories that would enhance integration in our communities”.
According to Stellar Murumba, the trainer, she is greatly inspired, referring to the training as a rewarding experience to engage a passionate team that is eager to learn and grow.
“I am particularly excited to witness the transformation in how participants address misinformation, foster social cohesion, and advocate for refugee rights while strengthening trust within the community, and seeing how the skills and strategies we explored will be applied in real-life scenarios”.
On his part, Isaiah Ekai, a VNGI representative, mentioned the training has been a transformative experience, emphasizing the crucial role of the communication team in sharing impactful stories of change related to migration.
“At VNG International, we remain committed to supporting the ongoing capacity-building of local governments in governance practices, ensuring that these efforts drive lasting, inclusive, and sustainable development in the region,” Isaiah added.
Barbara Lokaale, a Communications Officer, feels the training was impactful and necessary, stating, “As a communications officer, it reminded me to always have a clear strategy when handling stories. This has motivated me to improve how I approach my work and tell more meaningful stories”.
