RNP Promotes Truthful Environmental Journalism

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

Speaking during a training session held on October 15, 2025, at the Rwanda Environment Journalists (REJ) office in Kicukiro, ACP Rutikanga emphasized that accuracy is the foundation of credible journalism. The training focused on strengthening journalists’ capacity to verify information and promote integrity in environmental reporting.

“Professionalism begins with verifying every piece of information before sharing it with the public,” he said, adding that at the Rwanda National Police, every report is confirmed through multiple channels and supported by evidence.

He explained that the Police use technological and field-based tools—including drones, CCTV cameras, and helicopters—alongside officers who collect and verify data directly from the field. This process ensures accurate understanding of events, assessment of impact, and identification of responsible parties.

ACP Rutikanga warned against rushing to publish unverified information, noting that patience, discipline, and objectivity are key in journalism. “Laziness or emotional reporting destroys credibility and public trust,” he cautioned.

He also encouraged journalists to educate the public on environmental issues such as causes of degradation, impacts on communities, and sustainable solutions. Raising awareness, he said, is essential for mindset change and inspiring environmental responsibility.

Highlighting the shared duty between the media and law enforcement, ACP Rutikanga reaffirmed RNP’s commitment to working closely with journalists to ensure the public receives truthful and verified information.

concluded with a call for journalists to protect their credibility through factual reporting, emphasizing that accurate information not only builds trust but also influences policy and drives positive change in environmental management.

By:Florence Uwamaliya