A: In developing countries, but also in other countries, good investigative journalism is vital to provide in-depth analysis about negative but also positive issues that affect societies. It is a journalistic genre that can contribute to the development of a country because it encourages political accountability and citizen participation. It can be a source of positive change.

Q: What kinds of issues can these journalists address through investigative reporting?

A: Investigative journalism covers all kinds of issues, from art to politics. Journalists should not feel obliged to work only on sensitive issues, such as corruption and the lack of good governance. What they should do is to address subjects in depth, taking the time to investigate and provide details an depth to a story.

Q: How do you think the internet is affecting journalism?

A: Internet has revolutionized journalism, but not only in a positive way. Journalists can find an incredible amount of information on the web. They don’t have to move from their desk as much as they used to. They can start their investigation by searching the Internet, exchange emails and draft hypothesis. Yet, their work should be more than that. They must verify this information and avoid copying and pasting information that is available online.

Internet should be used critically and thoughtfully. It is the best, but also the worst enemy of the journalist.

Q: What did you hope to achieve through this online course?

A: I hope to encourage the participants to practice investigative journalism. Many will say that their media do not allow them to carry out investigations, because it costs money and time. It is a fact; fewer outlets can afford to pay a journalist to produce an investigative report.

This kind of journalism, however, is still a must to guarantee that the media remains an instrument of the public sphere where citizens, leaders and civil society receive and discuss information to be able to take actions and participate in the development of their country.

Q: How long have you been a media trainer?

A: I started working as a media trainer in the Palestinian territories in 2004 with a network of local television and radio outlets called the "Ma'an Network’ (www.maannet.org ). Since then I have given numerous media trainings in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

Q: Describe your work with journalists in Africa and other developing countries.

A: My work draws on my experience, both practical and theoretical, of the media and my knowledge of international relations and human rights. I'm passionate about the potential role of media to promoting good governance, peace and tolerance.

The work I do now in Africa is in Niger. I currently support a team of local journalists to produce two radio programs for an American NGO called "Equal Access" (www.equalaccess.org). One program is a weekly 30 minutes magazine for young people called “Gwadaben Matasa" (“boulevard of the youth” in English) and a drama series for adults in 124 episodes called:" Leka Hantsi Gidan Kowa (“the light that illuminates our homes” in English.)

"Gwadaben Matas" offers young people the opportunity to discuss issues that are crucial to them, such as work, relationship, health, education, etc. The program shares life skills and ways to deal with these issues to help young listeners to move on with their lives in a positive and constructive way.

"Hantsi" is performed by professional actors who play the ups and downs of three Nigerien families. The series is based on Miguel Sabido’s methodology which combines education with entertainment and encourages listeners to address issues in a peaceful way and to change behaviors for the better. Note: Joppart is a Belgian journalist and media consultant who has worked extensively with journalists in Africa and the Middle East.