GIABA trains journalists on investigating economic, financial crimes

The Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), a specialized institution of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is hosting journalists from the region for a 3-day Training on Investigating Economic and Financial Crimes in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau. The event taking place from 22nd to 24th September 2025 is expected to […]

The Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), a specialized institution of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is hosting journalists from the region for a 3-day Training on Investigating Economic and Financial Crimes in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

The event taking place from 22nd to 24th September 2025 is expected to bring together 40 journalists from ECOWAS member States, comprising print, electronic, and online media organisations, focusing on building the capacity of journalists in investigative reporting.

The workshop, according to Timothy Melaye Ag. Principal Officer, Communication & Advocacy, was designed to help GIABA forge a solid alliance with the media in a concerted

manner for the effective dissemination of information on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) issues; keep the media informed on regional AML/CFT initiatives, particularly GIABA’s mandate; and provide an opportunity for journalists to acquire techniques in information gathering and investigation.

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Furthermore, the training is to encourage the media to internally nurture the culture of investigation of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (ML/TF) practices.

The statement added that the training would strengthen the network of journalists in its drive to ensure more effective dissemination of information on AML/CFT regimes.

The statement added, “The media plays critical roles to promote good governance, ensure optimal deployment of state resources, facilitate the protection of the rights of citizens and ensure that corrupt officials and corrupt practices are exposed.

“The media also serves as a change agent, particularly as an anti-corruption crusader. Therefore, the importance of the media in disseminating AML/CFT messages cannot be over-emphasised.

“Traditionally, at the fore of the implementation of the AML/CFT standards are the law

enforcement and regulatory/supervisory agencies.

“The workshop will be delivered by a team of experienced experts and practitioners from the Secretariat and experts through plenary presentations, case studies, experience sharing, syndicate group exercises and role plays.”