MESHA Selected Nine Journalists for Climate Fellowship
The program supports media professionals from Eastern and Southern Africa to report on climate change issues.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Environmental
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Should climate journalism prioritize the impact of environmental changes on specific vulnerable social groups?
Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (MESHA) has selected nine media fellows from across Eastern and Southern Africa for a one-year program. The initiative aims to improve climate and science reporting through a gender-responsive approach.
Why it matters
The fellowship seeks to strengthen the quality of climate journalism in Africa by integrating gender-responsive and intersectional perspectives into coverage. By providing mentorship and research support, the program helps journalists address complex environmental challenges.
The fellowship program requires each of the nine selected participants to complete two key projects throughout the one-year term. Mentorship for these projects involves a dedicated researcher, a gender expert, and a supporting editor.
The players
Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture
This organization facilitates logistical support and research mentorship for journalists to improve climate reporting.
International Development Research Centre
This institution provides regional support and funding for projects aimed at enhancing effective climate change coverage in Africa.
The details
The fellowship is part of the Action Research to Enhance Effective Coverage of Climate Change Issues in Africa project, which receives support from the International Development Research Centre. Participants represent Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with two fellows specifically focused on adaptive horticulture in Botswana.
Timeline
The fellowship implementation and cohort activities will occur throughout 2026.
The Big Picture
This program aligns with the objectives of the Action Research to Enhance Effective Coverage of Climate Change Issues in Africa project. It marks a shift toward specialized, mentor-led journalism that prioritizes intersectional analysis over traditional reporting.
Readers can expect more nuanced journalism regarding horticultural adaptation and food security in the region. This initiative may lead to better-informed public discourse on climate resilience and policy.
The takeaway
This fellowship highlights the importance of combining technical research with journalistic expertise to solve climate communication gaps. Aspiring science writers should look for mentorship-based programs to develop specialized reporting skills.
Further reading
For additional context on climate initiatives, visit our Environmental section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mmegi Online.
Live Poll
Should climate journalism prioritize the impact of environmental changes on specific vulnerable social groups?
