By Chama Chabasungu

The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) held the first central training for 20 young female broadcast journalists selected for the fourth cohort of the Moto initiative, a collaboration between FPI and BBC Media Action under the Funsani Project and supported by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA).

The five-day training held from October 6 to 10 brought together 20 female practicing journalists from all 10 provinces of Zambia, building their confidence and sharpening their skills in journalism practice.

The participants engaged in hands-on sessions, shared real newsroom experiences, and learned practical tools to help them tell stories that are factual, ethical, and impactful.

Chief Executive Officer of BBC Media Action, Simon Bishop, visited the training, expressing his joy in seeing how Zambian female journalists are being empowered to shape a more balanced and professional media landscape.

Participants have returned to their newsrooms, eager to put their enhanced skills into practice.

This marks the beginning of the Moto girls’ journey to showcase their work, and continue to grow into powerful voices for truth and accountability.

“The Moto project stands as a testament to what happens when women in journalism are given the tools, knowledge, and platform to thrive. The story continues stronger and louder than ever,” said FPI founder and executive director, Joan Chirwa.