In May, we held a weeklong regional virtual workshop on AML-CFT and Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) for investigative journalists, whistle blowers and Civil Society Organisations representatives who work in governance, anti-corruption, financial transparency and the justice sector among others.
The rationale for this workshop was to sensitise the media and CSOs on their critical role in the fight against money laundering (ML) and IFFs through public sensitisation on the challenges of money laundering, IFFs and corruption, disclosing criminals through investigative journalism and whistle blowing.
The participants were drawn from the east, central and southern Africa regions. Over the week, the training enhanced their awareness and understanding on the risks and impact of ML and IFFs as well as foster their knowledge on how to detect and disclose illicit activities and their proceeds. They also learnt about the methods used to launder money, move illicit funds and disclose the criminal activities and perpetrators.
Our project team leader Frédéric BAYARD gave the opening remarks at the start of the workshop, introducing the project and emphasising the importance and critical role that journalist and CSOs play in reporting on money laundering related cases, exposing corruption and whistle blowing in the interest of the public.
Our senior technical advisor, Tuemay Aregawi Desta led this workshop throughout the week.
The workshop was expected to contribute to creating awareness about the challenges posed by organized crime, money laundering and IFFs on societies and enhance knowledge about the possible means of addressing the menace including strengthening cooperation between media, CSOs and public institutions.
(This training was delivered in two workshops – one in English, and the second in French).
