H.E Brian Olley encouraged professional practice and investigative journalism.

Out in Bamenda to lead events marking the 2014 World Armistice day, the British High Commissioner to Cameroon, H.E Brian Olley recently took time off to visit the Regional office of the Cameroon News and Publishing Corporation (SOPECAM). It was a rare moment for staff of the North West Bureau.

The visiting diplomat saw SOPECAM products which include, the National Bilingual daily, Cameroon Tribune, its monthly publication on People and places, “Nyanga”, the “WeekEND” Sports and Leisure publication and the biweekly economic supplement, “Alter Eco”.

The Chief of SOPECAM Bamenda, Choves Loh saluted the presence of the High Commissioner at SOPECAM Bamenda. He said SOPECAM Bamenda’s mission is summed up in ensuring that the North West Region features prominently on the communication map of the nation through regular news reports about the region.

Staff acknowledged the privilege of receiving the High Commissioner in SOPECAM Bamenda. Hurdles in the process of collecting, treating and disseminating information featured prominently in discussions between the diplomat and staff of SOPECAM Bamenda especially in a region where rumour does not help matters.

Curtains later dropped on the visit with H.E Brian Olley encouraging best practices in journalism. He saluted efforts that promote professionalism and ethical behaviour. It was all about journalism that showcases accuracy and balance, respect of professional ethics, deontology and above all, investigative journalism.

It was also about the ugliness of gutter journalism which emerges as a speed brake for people and any nation that aspires to progress and develop.