The Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) has launched Africa’s first continental guide dedicated to reporting on the just transition, giving journalists practical tools to cover climate change and its impact on workers and communities.
Titled A Practical Guide to Reporting Just Transition in Africa, the guide was unveiled during a conference on African Workers’ Contribution to Energy Sovereignty, Green Industrialisation and a Common African Position for COP31 in Nairobi, Kenya.
The conference brought together trade union leaders, civil society representatives, journalists and members of the African Group of Negotiators on Climate Change.
FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman said just transition reporting was now a major public interest issue because it affects jobs, livelihoods, workers’ rights and the future of African economies.
He said the guide would help journalists report accurately and fairly while ensuring African voices remain central to climate discussions.
The guide covers climate justice, climate finance, renewable energy, workers’ rights, sustainable development and information integrity. It also includes practical reporting techniques, case studies and ethical guidance tailored to African realities.
Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, Chair of the FAJ Working Group on Climate Change, said journalists across Africa were showing growing interest in climate reporting but often lacked specialised knowledge and reliable reporting tools.
The guide is published in English, French and Portuguese and will be distributed through FAJ-affiliated unions and media organisations. Digital versions will also be made freely available.
ITUC-Africa General Secretary Akhator Joel Odigie welcomed the initiative, saying stronger cooperation between journalists and trade unions could ensure workers’ concerns receive greater public attention.
Gambia Press Union President Isatou Keita described the guide as an important professional development resource for African journalists.
She said journalist unions could use it for training, mentoring and professional development to improve coverage of the just transition.