The Media Ombudsman and other stakeholders hosted a media and elections monitoring tool validation workshop in Windhoek on Tuesday.

The one-day workshop was aimed at drawing input on the media monitoring tool, which will be used to gauge the media's performance in the coverage of all election-related activities.

Journalists and media outlets are reminded of their role as watchdogs who hold those in power accountable by shining a spotlight on issues of democracy. 

In addition, the media play a role in ensuring transparency and honesty in the electoral process.

Moreover, in an era of misinformation and fake news, journalists act as gatekeepers, verifying facts and debunking falsehoods to ensure that citizens make informed decisions. 

Monitoring the media during elections is important for safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process. 

And with the digital age, where information flows freely and fast, the role of media monitoring becomes even more crucial, hence the media and elections monitoring tool validation workshop.