Journalists posing for group photo with leadership of Union of Journalists (UJoSS) and representative of Media Authority in Juba during the first day of Two-day trainings for journalists on election reporting, 16th/09/2026. Photo Credit: Emmanuel Kayanga.

By Emmanuel Kayanga – Juba | 16/09/2026

Journalists in South Sudan have been urged to practice responsible reporting and seek accreditation as the country prepares for its first-ever general elections in December.

Speaking during a two-day training program for journalists on strengthening access to information, gender-responsive and election reporting, Gabriel Mawien, the Director for Media and Data Department at the Media Authority, urged journalists to get accreditation card to ensure access to information and coverage regarding the elections.

“I encourage every journalist to reach out to us and get accreditation card for you to have access to polling stations and take coverage during election,” said the Director.

Mawien said responsible and careful reporting is vital to reduce conflict, misinformation and disinformation during elections.

“Be careful when reporting about elections and take this training seriously so that you apply whatever you learn here,” added Mawien.

The President of the Union of Journalists in South Sudan, (UJoSS) Oyet Patrick, called on journalists to practice fairness, balance and accuracy when reporting about the election. He reiterated that UJOSS remains committed to upholding its mandate of training journalists to be professional in their work ethics.

“This training is very important as we approach general elections. We must be responsible enough to bring accurate information,” said the President of UJoSS.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the National Editors Forum, Chol Jany, encouraged journalists to focus on local voices rather than just political elites during elections, noting that local voices represent the voices of citizens.

“As journalists, your responsibility is beyond reporting. You have to be neutral, impartial, balanced, and practice fairness by giving chances and practicing gender-responsive reporting,” said Jany.

The two-day workshop is organized by UJOSS and supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, for journalists from all ten states and three administrative areas in Juba. It aims to equip journalists with necessary skills and knowledge on elections and gender-responsive reporting, conflict-sensitive reporting, and preparation for coverage before, during and after elections.