By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
The Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) recently concluded a vital two-day training workshop for sports journalists, focusing on enhancing reporting skills and addressing the persistent underrepresentation of women in sports coverage.
The initiative, held in Maseru, brought together journalists from across the nation, eager to refine their craft and contribute to a more balanced and informative sports landscape. The training underscored the LNOC’s commitment not only to developing athletes but also to empowering the media professionals who play a crucial role in shaping public perception and promoting sports at all levels.
The purpose of this event is to reframe the narratives towards: community, athletes and administration. Also, increase participation of women in sports through programs and decision making. (UNESCO 2018) 12% of sports women are represented.
Mrs. Mathabo Makholo, Chief Operations Officer mentions that the key barriers to portrayals are lack of recognition, under representation of women except with Olympic games.
She says “women’s sport is generally given qualifier, for instance, women’s football, whereas men’s sport is not simply football rather than men’s football.”
The workshop tackles a range of critical issues, from the fundamentals of clear and concise writing to the nuances of ethical sports journalism. Participants explored best practices in interviewing techniques, crafting compelling narratives, and utilising various media platforms to reach wider audiences. A significant portion of the training was dedicated to addressing the historical imbalance in sports reporting, where women’s achievements often receive significantly less attention than their male counterparts.
The training curriculum is carefully designed to address the specific challenges faced by Lesotho’s sports journalists. Sessions focused on improving writing skills, highlighting clarity, accuracy, and engaging storytelling. Experienced journalists and media professionals facilitated interactive workshops, providing practical tips and real-world examples to illustrate effective reporting techniques. Participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing their own experiences and challenges, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology Lecturer, Mr. Teboho Mokonyana elaborates that language in sport journalism is important: avoiding stereotype, gender- bias, disability and inclusive language tones the content.
One of the key themes of the workshop was the importance of ethical reporting. Discussions centered around maintaining impartiality, avoiding bias, and respecting the privacy of athletes. The training stresses the responsibility of journalists to report fairly and accurately, ensuring that their work contributes to a positive and respectful sporting environment.
The ethical considerations surrounding the coverage of women in sports were given particular attention, with discussions focusing on avoiding stereotypical portrayals and promoting a more nuanced understanding of female athletes and their achievements.
The underrepresentation of women in sports media was a central focus of the training. Participants explored the various factors contributing to this imbalance, including societal biases, lack of access to resources, and limited opportunities for female journalists. The workshop aimed to equip journalists with the tools and knowledge to challenge these biases and actively promote women’s sports. Discussions explored how journalists can highlight the achievements of female athletes, tell their stories, and advocate for greater equity in sports coverage.
“This training has been incredibly valuable,” shares Lebohang “I have learned so much about improving my writing, conducting effective interviews, and understanding the nuances of ethical reporting. The focus on women in sports has been particularly important. I believe that we as journalists have a responsibility to showcase the incredible talent and dedication of our female athletes, and this workshop has given me the tools to do that effectively.”
The workshop also addressed the challenges of reporting on women’s sports in a context where information and resources may be limited. Participants discussed strategies for finding and accessing information about female athletes, developing networks of contacts, and utilising social media and other platforms to promote women’s sports. The LNOC shows its commitment to supporting journalists in their efforts to cover women’s sports, highlighting its ongoing initiatives to develop women’s athletics at all levels.
The training concluded with a call to action, urging journalists to apply the skills and knowledge they had gained to improve their reporting and actively promote women’s sports in Lesotho. Participants were encouraged to collaborate with each other, share resources, and continue the conversation about gender equality in sports. The LNOC expressed its commitment to ongoing support for sports journalists, mentioning the importance of continuous professional development.
The two-day workshop represents a significant step towards a more balanced and representative sports media landscape in Lesotho. By equipping journalists with the skills and knowledge they need to report effectively on all sports, regardless of gender, the LNOC is contributing to the growth and development of athletics in the nation.
The training not only enhances the quality of sports journalism but also empowers journalists to become advocates for gender equality, ensuring that the achievements and stories of all athletes are celebrated and shared with the world.
The long-term impact of this initiative will be measured by the increased visibility of women’s sports in the media and the growing recognition of female athletes as role models and inspirations for future generations. The LNOC’s commitment to empowering sports journalists signals a positive shift towards a more inclusive and equitable sporting future for Lesotho.