Gambian journalists Must Transition Conjecture journalism" to "interpretative journalism."

Fatoumatta: I have frequently voiced my concern that journalism in The Gambia has reached a troubling low in terms of professionalism and the quality of content offered to its readers and audience. It is my sincere hope that Gambian journalists will transition from the practice of "conjecture journalism" to embrace "interpretative journalism." This leads me to question whether cartoonists actively participate in our newsrooms or if cartoon creation is integrated into the curriculum of Gambian journalism schools. The inclusion of editorial cartoons is not merely beneficial but essential for enriching the journalistic content we provide. For media outlets needing in-house cartoonists, hiring a dedicated artist is highly advisable. At The Independent, we had the privilege of working with notable talents like the late Pa Dacosta, Njogu Touray, Momodou Camara, Kolley, and Ghanaian artist Mr. Kofi, who contributed impactful editorial pieces on pressing issues. Today, many journalists grapple with the fundamental principles of their craft. This is the crux of my argument: individuals lacking robust journalistic training are in positions to teach it. Journalism is not just a job; it is a revered profession that demands the same rigor and training as any other field. Unfortunately, some people have stumbled into journalism out of desperation or chance, while others believe that a knack for writing fiction or essays equates to journalistic excellence. In stark contrast, I chose to pursue journalism purposefully, seeking the comprehensive training essential for this role. It is crucial to emphasize that professional training must extend to journalists and media owners alike.

To elevate journalism above mediocrity, we must embrace a broader range of elements and techniques. Merely being adept at writing fiction or essays does not guarantee journalistic quality. While not every newspaper needs to include cartoons to be considered legitimate, editorial cartoons are a vital component for many respected publications. They deliver visual and often satirical insights into current affairs, political climates, and societal issues. Cartoons have the unique ability to distill complex subjects into easily digestible content, shaping public opinion and sparking essential discussions. While some newspapers may choose to forgo them, those that include cartoons often discover that they significantly enhance readers' comprehension of the news, offering perspectives that straightforward text may fail to convey. In the diverse realm of journalism, editorial cartoons occupy a distinguished and irreplaceable niche. With an impactful mix of humor, satire, and visual storytelling, they reveal the hidden dimensions of society, prompting us to confront uncomfortable truths and strive for improvement. Editorial cartoons are cherished in journalism for numerous reasons: they present powerful visual commentaries that transcend linguistic barriers and encapsulate intricate ideas. They effectively mirror pressing societal challenges while using humor to provoke thought and challenge established norms. The tradition of editorial cartooning boasts a remarkable history, with trailblazers like James Gillray and Thomas Nast employing their art to critique political and social issues. Cartoons stand as emblems of free expression, empowering cartoonists to elevate underrepresented voices and confront those in authority. They play an educational role by presenting political matters and events in a way that is accessible and engaging, provoking reflection among readers. As instruments of public scrutiny, cartoons boldly address corruption, inequality, and injustice through visual commentary. Their power lies in the ability to shape public sentiment, question authority, and distill complex issues into relatable imagery that resonates across diverse audiences. Ultimately, cartoons and their creators enrich journalistic discourse by offering a unique, engaging, and often poignant lens through which we can understand news and social events.