Deadline: 11-Jul-2026
The Earth Journalism Network is inviting journalists in Kenya to apply for a fully funded biodiversity reporting workshop in Malindi from August 24–26, 2026. The training will strengthen journalists’ skills in conservation reporting, biodiversity science, environmental policy and ethical use of AI in journalism.
The workshop will support about 15 selected journalists from Kenya, including print, broadcast, digital and freelance reporters, with priority given to women, rural, Indigenous and early-career journalists.
Overview of the Biodiversity Reporting Workshop
The Earth Journalism Network is organising a specialised workshop to strengthen environmental journalism and biodiversity reporting skills among Kenyan media professionals.
The workshop will take place in: Malindi, Kenya
Dates: August 24–26, 2026
The programme focuses on improving the quality, accuracy and impact of conservation reporting.
Purpose of the Workshop
The training aims to help journalists better understand biodiversity issues and report environmental stories with scientific accuracy and public relevance.
Participants will learn how to:
- Explain biodiversity challenges
- Report conservation issues effectively
- Understand environmental policies
- Cover climate and nature solutions
- Produce evidence-based stories
Key Training Topics
Biodiversity Concepts
Participants will explore:
- Biodiversity importance
- Ecosystem protection
- Species conservation
- Ecological threats
The training will help journalists explain biodiversity issues clearly to the public.
IUCN Red List and Species Protection
The workshop will cover the IUCN Red List, a global system that assesses the conservation status of species.
Journalists will learn about:
- Threatened species
- Conservation categories
- Species decline reporting
- Scientific conservation data
Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)
The programme will introduce Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) and their role in conservation.
Topics include:
- Identifying important ecosystems
- Protecting critical habitats
- Reporting conservation priorities
Conservation Sites and Institutions
Participants will learn about major conservation efforts and institutions including:
- Kenya Wildlife Service
- Kenya Forest Service
- Conservation organisations
The training will help journalists understand how conservation systems operate.
Drivers of Biodiversity Loss
The workshop will examine major causes of biodiversity decline, including:
- Habitat destruction
- Climate change
- Pollution
- Unsustainable resource use
- Human activities
Human-Wildlife Conflict
Journalists will explore reporting approaches related to:
- Wildlife conservation
- Community challenges
- Conflict prevention
- Local solutions
The focus will be on balanced and responsible storytelling.
Illegal Wildlife Trade
Training will cover:
- Wildlife trafficking
- Conservation enforcement
- Environmental crime reporting
Participants will learn how to investigate and report these issues safely and accurately.
Environmental Policies and Frameworks
The workshop will discuss:
- Global environmental agreements
- National conservation policies
- Environmental governance systems
Journalists will gain knowledge of policy processes affecting biodiversity.
Nature-Based Solutions
Participants will learn about approaches that use natural systems to address environmental challenges.
Examples include:
- Ecosystem restoration
- Conservation-based climate solutions
- Sustainable land management
Ethical Use of AI in Journalism
The workshop will explore responsible use of artificial intelligence in environmental reporting.
Topics include:
- AI-assisted research
- Verification of information
- Ethical reporting practices
- Avoiding misinformation
Workshop Format
The programme will combine:
- Expert presentations
- Interactive discussions
- Practical journalism sessions
- Field visits
Participants will engage with:
- Researchers
- Policymakers
- Conservation experts
- Civil society organisations
- Local communities
Field Learning Component
The workshop includes a field visit to a biodiversity hotspot.
The visit will allow journalists to:
- Observe conservation challenges
- Gather reporting ideas
- Connect with local stakeholders
Who Is Eligible?
The workshop is open to journalists based in Kenya.
Eligible applicants include:
- Print journalists
- Television journalists
- Radio journalists
- Digital media journalists
- Freelance reporters
Applicants should have experience in:
- Environmental reporting
- Conservation journalism
- Related reporting fields
Priority Groups
Applications are especially encouraged from:
- Women journalists
- Rural journalists
- Indigenous journalists
- Early-career reporters
The programme promotes diversity and inclusive participation in environmental journalism.
Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Working proficiency in English
English will be used for workshop activities and communication.
Funding and Support
The workshop is fully funded for selected participants.
Coverage includes:
- Travel costs
- Accommodation
- Meals
Participants do not need to arrange their own workshop-related expenses.
Selection Process
Step 1: Application Submission
Journalists submit applications describing:
- Professional background
- Reporting experience
- Interest in biodiversity journalism
Step 2: Application Review
Applications are assessed based on:
- Relevant experience
- Motivation
- Diversity considerations
- Potential impact
Step 3: Participant Selection
Approximately:
15 journalists
will be selected.
Step 4: Notification
Selected participants will be informed after the review process.
Selection announcements are expected in:
August 2026
Why This Workshop Matters
Biodiversity loss is a major global and local challenge.
Strong environmental journalism helps communities understand:
- Conservation needs
- Environmental risks
- Policy decisions
- Sustainable solutions
The workshop supports journalists in creating informed and impactful stories.
Benefits for Participants
Selected journalists will gain:
- Biodiversity knowledge
- Conservation reporting skills
- Expert connections
- Field experience
- Professional development
Participants can improve their ability to produce high-quality environmental stories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting General Journalism Experience Only
Applicants should highlight:
- Environmental stories
- Conservation-related work
- Relevant reporting experience
Lack of Clear Motivation
Applications should explain:
- Why biodiversity reporting matters
- How the training will improve their work
Ignoring Diversity Information
Eligible applicants should clearly mention relevant background or experience supporting inclusive reporting.
Weak Examples of Previous Work
Applicants should provide examples demonstrating:
- Reporting skills
- Research ability
- Public interest journalism
Tips for a Strong Application
A strong application should:
- Show interest in biodiversity issues
- Highlight journalism experience
- Explain expected impact
- Demonstrate commitment to environmental reporting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Earth Journalism Network biodiversity workshop?
It is a training programme that helps Kenyan journalists improve biodiversity and conservation reporting skills.
2. When and where will the workshop take place?
It will take place in Malindi, Kenya, from August 24–26, 2026.
3. How many journalists will be selected?
Approximately 15 journalists will participate.
4. Is the workshop funded?
Yes. Travel, accommodation and meals are covered for selected participants.
5. Who can apply?
Journalists based in Kenya working in print, broadcast, digital media or freelance journalism can apply.
6. What topics will be covered?
Topics include biodiversity, conservation, wildlife, environmental policy, nature-based solutions and AI ethics.
7. Are early-career journalists eligible?
Yes. Early-career journalists are encouraged to apply.
Conclusion
The Earth Journalism Network Biodiversity Reporting Workshop provides Kenyan journalists with an opportunity to strengthen their environmental reporting skills.
By combining scientific knowledge, policy understanding and practical journalism training, the programme supports better public awareness and stronger conservation storytelling.
For more information, visit Earth Journalism Network.