Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA)

President George Weah of Liberia has resubmitted a Bill to the Legislature to decriminalize free speech and create a less restrictive media environment.

Over the last two weeks in May, two journalists and a civil society activist were verbally abused and threatened while on assignment.

While covering the anniversary celebration of Biafra separatist groups, correspondent Emeka Ihiegbulem was attacked by a group of men from various security agencies.

For the second time this year, Chadian authorities have disrupted internet services in the country leaving internet users with no access to social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp.

During his detention by the Department of State Services – Nigeria’s secret police agency – journalist Tony Ezimakor was constantly asked to reveal the source of his story regarding ransom payments made to secure the release of school girls held hostage by Boko Haram.

MFWA is developing a media strategy and training curriculum for journalists in the region on the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG).

The Ghanaian Police Service has initiated an investigation into the assault on four journalists during a demonstration at the headquarters of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) prompted by the Media Foundation of West Africa.

In a report published at the end of January 2018, MFWA found online harassment to be one of the major challenges facing women in the Ghanaian online space.