Reporting on the environment in West Africa has become one of the most dangerous beats in journalism. Journalists covering illegal mining, deforestation, and land exploitation face intimidation, physical attacks, and in some cases, much worse. The UNESCO/CJID Storytelling Fellowship was built for reporters willing to tell those stories anyway, giving them the training, mentorship, and institutional backing to do it safely and with maximum impact.
About the UNESCO/CJID Storytelling Fellowship Program
The program is a joint initiative between the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), a leading West African media innovation and development organization, and the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund (GMDF), which supports journalists operating in high-risk environments worldwide. Running for six months from July to December 2026, the fellowship focuses specifically on investigative reporting into violence and threats against environmental journalists across West Africa.
Funding Size
- Six-month fully supported fellowship from July to December 2026
- Mentorship, investigative training, and story development support provided at no cost
- No application or participation fees
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Who Can Apply
- Professional journalists currently based in Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, Nigeria, or Sierra Leone
- Both freelance and staff journalists are eligible
- Environmental reporters and investigative journalists are particularly encouraged to apply
- Female journalists and independent media professionals are strongly encouraged to submit applications
Geographic Eligibility
- West Africa only
- Open to journalists residing and working in Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, Nigeria, or Sierra Leone
Sector or Thematic Focus
- Investigative reporting on violence and threats against environmental journalists
- Environmental crime, illegal resource exploitation, and ecological injustice
- Journalist safety, press freedom, and media protection in West Africa
- Accountability journalism and ethical storytelling standards
- Climate change impacts, illegal mining, deforestation, and land rights
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through a Google Form managed by CJID. All seven sections of the form must be completed in full. Incomplete submissions will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to submit early given the competitive nature of the selection process. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted following the review period.
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Required Materials
- Completed online application form covering all seven sections
- Full name and gender details
- Contact email and phone number
- Country of residence
- Professional or social media profile links
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 8 June 2026
- Fellowship period: July 2026 to December 2026
Selection Notes
- The selection committee places significant weight on an applicant’s existing body of environmental or investigative reporting work
- Journalists with demonstrated experience covering high-risk beats and human rights issues are given strong consideration
- Only shortlisted candidates will be notified; applicants who do not hear from the committee should consider their application unsuccessful
- The program is competitive and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection