Journalists from 30 African countries, including Mozambique, have been debating the importance of the media in promoting a common African narrative for the establishment of climate justice since Wednesday in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

The journalists intend to define common actions aimed at establishing a common agenda for climate justice on the continent, including a call for greater international commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change in Africa.

Promoted by the African Federation of Journalists (FAJ), the conference's agenda includes an assessment of the work of journalists in the field of the environment, with an emphasis on climate change and its effects on the continent.

Speaking at the opening session of the event, FAJ president Omar Faruk Osman stressed that the impact of climate change in Africa and mitigation actions vary from country to country, hence the need for a common advocacy front that can be exercised by journalists.

"Journalists have a vital role to play in advocating for equitable climate justice in Africa, including the proper use of funds available at the international level," he said.

He pointed out that although the continent is currently experiencing lower levels of environmental pollution than other regions of the world, the situation could change in the coming decades as industrialization increases in Africa.

At the two-day conference, the National Union of Journalists (SNJ) will be represented by its Secretary General, Faruco Sadique. (RM)