Over 20 Rwandan journalists have acquired knowledge and reporting skills on the operations of the International Criminal Court (ICC), following a two-day workshop organised by Human Rights First Rwanda Association.

The training workshop that was held in Kigali also attracted members of the civil society.

Among topics discussed was the Role of Media in International Criminal Justice processes and misconceptions of the ICC.

The Executive Director of the rights body, Job Nzovu, said that the objective of the workshop was to build the capacity of the media to understand how the ICC operates and clear any misconceptions.

"There are many misconceptions about the ICC and we want the media to have the right information about it so that they can help inform the rest of the public,” Nzovu said.

He added that through the workshop, journalists would be able to report with knowledge, cases involving the international court.

Emmanuel Mugisha, a lawyer who participated in the workshop, noted that the media is the mouthpiece of society and could, therefore, help them understand and engage in the ICC process.

"The media can interpret information to the lay people because it is usually in technical terms. When the media raises the flag, it’s easy for the concerned authorities to intervene,” Mugisha added.

Modeste Nkurikiyinka, a journalist with Amazing Grace Radio, said that through the workshop, he learnt a lot about the international court.

"I have learnt the basics of reporting issues regarding the ICC. I am pleased that the media can gather their thoughts and send their opinions which can be considered during decision making at the court,” Nkurikiyinka added.

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