RNP Spokesperson trains environmental journalists on Fact-Checking

Author; Patrick Niyonkuru

Rwanda National Police (RNP) Spokesperson, ACP Rutikanga Boniface, has urged Rwandan environmental journalists to uphold truth and professionalism through effective fact-checking.

During a training session on Wednesday afternoon,15 October 2025, at the Rwanda Environment Journalists Office in Kicukiro, he emphasized the importance of verifying information before reporting.

The session aimed to strengthen journalists’ capacity to verify information, promote credibility in environmental reporting, and share practical methods used by the Police to ensure accuracy and prioritize factual verification.

ACP Rutikanga emphasized that fact-checking is a core pillar of responsible journalism and a critical tool in combating misinformation.

“Professionalism begins with verifying every piece of information before sharing it with the public,” he said.

“At Rwanda National Police, we ensure that every report is supported by evidence and confirmed through multiple channels.”

He explained that the Police utilize both technological and field-based methods to ensure information accuracy. These include drones, CCTV cameras, and helicopters, alongside sending officers to collect and verify data directly from the field.

This approach allows them to fully understand what happened, determine the extent of damage, assess the impact on the community, and identify those responsible.

ACP Rutikanga further noted that fact-checking requires patience, discipline, and impartiality, warning journalists against emotional or hurried reporting that could lead to the spread of inaccurate information.

“A journalist must remain patient and objective. Laziness or rushing to publish unverified information destroys credibility and public trust,” he cautioned.

He encouraged environmental journalists to educate the public on environmental issues, including understanding what constitutes the environment, human activities that cause degradation, the resulting impacts, and practical solutions.

He stressed that raising awareness is essential for changing mindsets and inspiring sustainable action among communities.

ACP Rutikanga also highlighted the shared responsibility between law enforcement and the media in ensuring the public receives truthful and factual information.

“The Rwanda National Police is committed to continued collaboration with environmental journalists by providing timely, accurate, and verified data that supports responsible reporting,” he assured.

The training concluded with a reminder that credibility in journalism begins with facts, and that environmental journalists have a vital duty to uphold integrity and professionalism.

He emphasized that journalists play a key role in shaping public understanding and influencing environmental policy. By delivering verified and accurate information, journalists not only protect their credibility but also contribute to informed decision-making in society and foster greater accountability among those responsible for environmental management.