Collaborating for impact
The Citizen Bulletin: Environmental Outlet Challenges a Corporate Giant
Launched in 2017, The Citizen Bulletin is a digital-first newsroom that produces hard-hitting long-form reporting in Matabeleland, south-western Zimbabwe. It focuses on special-interest beats such as public health, education, and the environment, while also covering news stories.
- Zimbabwe
- The Citizen Bulletin
- Calvin Manika , Lynnia Ngwenya, Melody Cleopatra Mpande
- 2023
- Zimbabwe
- The Citizen Bulletin
- Calvin Manika , Lynnia Ngwenya, Melody Cleopatra Mpande
- 2023
MAIN REVENUE MODEL
> The Story
Three Report for the World corps members collaborated on a series of reports on the state of education in Matabeleland. Each reporter tackled different challenges within the education system. Through support from the Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting, the reporters were able to make multiple visits to the communities to create trust among the interviewees and diverse strands of reporting. The reports were disseminated via WhatsApp, and the team created a ‘safe space’ for audiences to discuss the topics.
Impact Summary:
External Individual Impact
Within a week of publication, the platform’s WhatsApp distribution list grew by over 100 engaged members commenting and sharing takeaways. On Facebook, the post had over 5,000 impressions.
External Network impact
An influential community member reached out to The Citizen Bulletin via WhatsApp and Facebook seeking further information. He pledged to organize meetings with parents and educators at the local school to address the challenges highlighted in the story and work together on finding community-driven solutions. Additionally, several teachers expressed appreciation to the outlet for shedding light on important educational issues.
Takeaway
The collaborative process strengthened the final product. Peer reviews enhanced storytelling and accuracy. Engaging the community through social media attracted community led initiatives.
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