In a landmark effort to strengthen professionalism across the country’s media sector, the National Editors’ Forum (NEF) hosted its first-ever Editorial Breakfast Meeting at the AMDISS Media Center in Juba. The event brought together more than 20 editors and media managers from across South Sudan for a strategic dialogue on standardizing newsroom practices and reinforcing editorial ethics.
The gathering served as a timely platform for candid discussion on key issues affecting journalism in the country — from limited resources and safety concerns to innovation and the future of editorial collaboration.
A key resolution from the meeting was the decision to review and revise the National Editorial Guidelines, which will serve as a unified framework for newsrooms. The updated guidelines are expected to be integrated into internal editorial policies to promote ethical standards and consistency in reporting.
“This meeting marks an important step forward,” said NEF Chairperson Chuol Jany, who opened the session. “It’s a platform not only to address the pressing issues impacting our profession but also to shape a shared vision for NEF — one grounded in ethics, innovation, and a unified editorial voice.”
Chuol, who recently assumed office, called for bold thinking and deeper cooperation among media stakeholders. He also expressed gratitude to AMDISS for hosting the meeting free of charge and for its unwavering support of media development efforts.
AMDISS Executive Director Ayaa Irene applauded NEF for taking initiative to strengthen editorial integrity and pledged full support to editors working to elevate the credibility of journalism in South Sudan.
The meeting also featured participation from representatives of the Chinese Embassy, who attended as special guests to listen to the concerns of media leaders and explore opportunities for collaboration in addressing sector-wide challenges.
Editors shared firsthand experiences, highlighted success stories, and proposed innovative approaches to tackle common newsroom hurdles. Among the priority issues raised need for improved newsroom infrastructure, especially at the national broadcaster SSBC
Establishment of a national printing press to reduce publication costs and enhance NEF’s sustainability and greater collaboration across media houses to drive collective impact
Joseph Chadar of Radio Miraya urged NEF to lead advocacy efforts targeting investment in news production infrastructure, noting that institutions like SSBC are pivotal to the nation’s media identity.
The meeting concluded with a strong consensus on the need for continued dialogue, shared standards, and united action to confront the evolving challenges facing journalism in South Sudan.
