Fatshimetrie, a key player in information in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently celebrated National Press Day with a powerful call for journalistic ethics and professional conduct. This day marks an important opportunity to remind Congolese journalists of the vital importance of respecting the highest professional standards to ensure quality journalism.
Pierre Matadi, deputy editorial director of Fatshimetrie, stressed the importance of authentic and ethical journalism, warning against questionable practices that tarnish the reputation of the profession. He stressed that professional journalists are those who strive to provide information that is verified and from reliable sources, while avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation and bias.
Since the evolution of the 1996 law until the recent reforms initiated during the Nganda Center meetings under the leadership of the Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya, the Congolese press has made significant progress. Women journalists now play an essential role in the media landscape, occupying positions of responsibility within editorial offices such as that of Fatshimetrie, where their presence is preponderant.
Benjamin Yogolelo, senior editor at Fatshimetrie, praised the professionalism demonstrated by reporters on the ground. While welcoming his team’s commitment to respecting information criteria and quality standards, he stressed the need to continue efforts to improve the relevance of illustrations and guarantee reliable and verified information.
On this day dedicated to press freedom, it is essential to remember the importance of the role of the press in society. Journalists must exercise diligence and integrity in their work, avoiding defamation, unverified information and sensationalist content. The Disciplinary Commission of the UNPC, the national press union of Congo, must remain vigilant in the face of professional abuses and ensure that quality journalism is promoted.
Gaby Kuba, president of the National Press Union of Congo, had stressed the previous year the importance of a quality press to fight against disinformation in all its forms. On this day of celebration and reflection, it is crucial for all stakeholders in the media sector to redouble their efforts to ensure responsible, ethical and professional journalism.
Fatshimetrie is committed to continuing to play a leading role in the Congolese media landscape by promoting high standards of professional conduct and journalistic ethics, while contributing to inform, educate and raise awareness among the population on current affairs and social issues.