In the DRC, “child reporters” both witnesses and actors in their daily lives

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Far from misery and recurring topics on poverty or violence, young Congolese seize the problems of their society and deal with them with accuracy and a desire for change. They express themselves on the Pona Bana blog (“For kids” in Lingala). The initiative carried out by UNICEF enables them in particular to become aware of their rights and to be fully involved in the construction of a fairer society.

The voice of young people

They are between 10 and 17 years old. Girls and boys from all social backgrounds who play apprentice journalists. These young Congolese, “child reporters”, deal with all the subjects that challenge them. They inform themselves, then in turn inform the young people of their age and can give their opinion. Self-medication, nurses’ strike, vaccination, free education… The themes are varied and concern education, culture and health as well as the environment.

“We encourage them to tell what they see, what concerns them. Their stories are linked to situations that they want to denounce.”

Jacques Matand, editorial guarantor of the Pona Bana blog

at franceinfo Africa

Training and supervision

Before participating in the Pona Bana blog, young people are handpicked with a first selection via the school based mainly on motivation. Pupils are first introduced to the International Convention on the Rights of the Child, which serves as a basis for reflection. They are then trained in writing, sound recording and video production with mobile phones. Journalism 2.0 supervised by Jacques Matand and Ange Kasongo. The two Congolese journalists are keen to make the voices of young people heard and encourage them to write in the first person so that they take responsibility and put themselves forward. The result is stunning and their interventions have a strong impact on both young people of their generation and decision-makers.

“‘Child reporters’ had written to denounce the situation in certain schools where there was no water or toilets, and they succeeded in changing things. Today, there are water fountains and better sanitary facilities.”

Jacques Matand, editorial guarantor of the Pona Bana blog

at franceinfo Africa

ambitions and dreams

The Pona Bana project has trained dozens of young Congolese whose voice is relayed on the blog, on radio Okapi (the UN radio in the Democratic Republic of Congo) and on social networks (Facebook and Twitter). Their experiences as “child reporters” allowed them to challenge decision-makers and meet influencers or artists. Above all, they have nurtured ambitions in the hope of realizing their dreams.

Many “child reporters”, some of whom have become journalists, mathematicians, doctors or lawyers, continue their commitment to the Pona Bana project by transmitting their skills in turn to contribute to change and the construction of a fairer and more respectful society. of his children.


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