In pursuit of catalyzing agricultural transformation in South Omo zone, Hailemariam & Roman Foundation (HRF) hosted a two-day advocacy training for 25 journalists and communication experts in the zone, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to effectively communicate and highlight community needs.
“Advocacy is another way of giving back to our communities, and I’m glad that we’ve received the training when our communities need us more than ever,” said Meri Lorogo, a community radio journalist from Nyangatom woreda, South Omo zone.
The training sought to not only equip the journalists and communication experts with practical skills and knowledge on advocacy but also provide a space for them to reflect on their advocacy journeys. “Advocating for community priorities is something many journalists and communication experts know is important, but feel unsure about where to start,” said Mame Bantilgu, a government communication expert from Hamer woreda, adding that the training has helped her develop new tools and skills to advocate for community needs.
During the two-day training, held from 20-21 December 2024 in Jinka town, the participants were introduced to key community priorities, constitutional and media frameworks, message development and alignment, and advocacy planning, among others.
The training is part of the “Agricultural Transformation, Food and Nutrition Security Project,” being implemented by Hailemariam & Roman Foundation, with the financial support of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, in South Omo zone.
