By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – In a bid to strengthen informed reporting on business, finance, and economic matters, Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) hosts a robust two-day media training workshop, designed to equip local journalists with the knowledge and skills required to report accurately on complex financial and economic issues. the workshop attracted media professionals from various sectors, including print, broadcast, and digital platforms, all keen to enhance their understanding of the country’s financial landscape.
The workshop, themed “Empowering Journalists for Economic Development Reporting”, focused on the vital role of the media in shaping public opinion and influencing economic policy through accurate and ethical journalism. RSL’s goal is to ensure that journalists do not only better understand financial terminology and concepts but also translate complex information into relatable and clear reports for the general public.
In his opening address, Mr. Lekhetho Ntsukunyane, the National Director of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Lesotho, underscores the crucial role that journalists play in fostering an informed society. He emphasizes that accurate reporting is the cornerstone of transparent governance and public accountability, particularly in financial matters that directly affect citizens’ livelihoods.
Ntsukunyane highlights the media’s responsibility in ensuring that the public remains well-informed about financial developments, such as taxation, government budgets, and economic trends.
The two-day training was meticulously structured into interactive sessions facilitated by Mr. Mzimkhulu Sithetho Managing Director at Government Institute for Sustainable Development, in his presentations shares that each session aims to break down the complexities of Lesotho’s financial systems, providing participants with a thorough understanding of the country’s business environment.
A significant portion of the training delved into the financial markets and macroeconomic indicators, equipping journalists with the tools to report accurately on topics such as inflation, interest rates, currency fluctuations, and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Economic analysts presented data on Lesotho’s current economic conditions, explaining how these metrics influence day-to-day business operations and consumer confidence.
Journalists were trained on how to interpret government financial documents, such as the annual budget and central bank reports, and were given practical tips on how to explain these often-complex topics to the public in clear and engaging terms. “A journalist’s ability to accurately decode and present financial data can have a profound impact on public understanding and business confidence,” one of the facilitators, Mr. Thabo Sekhamane, a financial analyst, pointed out.
Another pivotal session focused on corporate reporting and how journalists can more effectively cover the business performance of local companies. Experts guided participants through reading and interpreting financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports. Journalists were given insights into analysing corporate profits and losses, mergers, acquisitions, and stock market performances.
The importance of contextualizing corporate stories within the broader national economy was emphasized. Journalists learned that by accurately reporting on the business sector, they not only inform the public but also influence business confidence and investment decisions. “Businesses rely on the media to relay information that reflects their performance and growth. Properly informed business journalism can boost the country’s economic image,” said one of the guest speakers from the Central Bank of Lesotho.
One of the most critical sessions centered on ethics in financial journalism. Media professionals were reminded of the delicate balance they must maintain when reporting on sensitive financial information. Ethical concerns such as avoiding sensationalism, fact-checking, and the responsible handling of corporate or governmental economic scandals were thoroughly discussed. Journalists were encouraged to adhere to transparency, fairness, and accuracy in their reporting, fostering public trust.
“Financial reporting is not just about numbers and data; it’s about telling the truth and helping the public understand what those figures mean for their lives,” said Mr. Sithetho.
To reinforce theoretical knowledge, the workshop included practical sessions where journalists were tasked with drafting mock articles based on real-world financial scenarios. These articles were critiqued by financial experts and experienced journalists, providing participants with actionable feedback on how to improve their reporting style, clarity, and accuracy.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Pheello Mphana, Public Relations Manager at RSL, reiterates the importance of continuous collaboration between the media and financial institutions. “As the global and local economy evolves, the media must keep pace with these changes. Accurate, informed reporting is key to maintaining public trust and promoting an environment of transparency and accountability, which is essential for national growth,” he says.
he also commended the journalists for their participation and emphasized that RSL will continue to support capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the quality of business and financial journalism in the country.
The media training workshop is expected to have a lasting impact on the landscape of financial journalism in Lesotho. By empowering media professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary to report more effectively on economic affairs, RSL is not only promoting informed journalism but also contributing to the creation of a more financially literate public. This initiative reflects RSL’s broader commitment to fostering economic growth and transparency through education and collaboration with key stakeholders, including the media.
As Lesotho continues to navigate economic challenges and opportunities, the role of well-informed journalists in facilitating public understanding and contributing to sound economic decision-making cannot be overstated. RSL’s efforts to build this capacity are a crucial step towards ensuring that Lesotho’s economic story is told with clarity, precision, and responsibility.