The West African Journalists for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (WAJESHA) has launched a new website aimed at helping journalists report on climate, health, science and agriculture issues across the region.

The website, www.wajesha.org, will allow members to share stories, access resources, connect with experts and work together on reporting projects.

WAJESHA is a non-profit journalism project of the Centre for Climate Change & Food Security (CCCFS) created to improve reporting on issues that affect communities, economies and government policies across West Africa.

The group says it has nearly 200 members, including journalists, editors, communicators, scientists and researchers from different countries in the region.

Speaking on the launch, WAJESHA Director Engr Mahmud Mohammed-Nurudeen said the platform comes at a time when West Africa is facing growing challenges linked to climate change, food insecurity, environmental damage and public health threats.

“Many of the challenges facing West Africa are connected. Journalists need to explain not only what is happening, but also the causes, effects and possible solutions,” he said.

He said WAJESHA would give journalists more opportunities to learn, share knowledge and work together.

“Our goal is to build a network where journalists can access information, speak to experts and produce stories that help people understand issues affecting their lives,” he added.

WAJESHA says the website will also promote cooperation between journalists in different West African countries and showcase investigations, features and reports produced by members.

The organisation’s Editor-in-Chief, Aminu Adamu Ahmed, said the platform would help improve reporting on subjects that often require technical knowledge.

“Reporting on environment, science, health and agriculture requires accuracy and context. Journalists need access to the right information and networks to tell these stories well,” he said.

Mr Ahmed said WAJESHA would continue to encourage evidence-based reporting that reflects the experiences of communities across the region.

“We want to support journalism that informs the public, encourages accountability and contributes to discussions about solutions,” he added.

WAJESHA focuses on issues including climate change, biodiversity, pollution, environmental health, food systems, agriculture and scientific innovation.

The organisation is inviting journalists, editors, researchers and science communicators to join the network through its website. Membership registration is available at www.wajesha.org.

WAJESHA says the launch of the website is an important step in its effort to connect journalists and improve reporting on issues that will shape the future of West Africa.