Editorial Standards

Africa Trade Monitor is committed to excellence in journalism and maintaining the highest standards of professional integrity. Our editorial standards guide all reporting and ensure our audience receives accurate, fair, and contextual information about African trade issues. Accuracy and Verification Every factual claim in our reporting must be verified through primary sources or established, credible secondary sources. Our reporters are required to document all sources and maintain detailed notes on verification processes. We distinguish clearly between facts, analysis, and opinion. Before publication, senior editors review all trade data, statistics, and policy information. When reporting on markets, tariffs, or regulatory changes, we consult official government sources, industry associations, and recognized databases. We acknowledge the limitations of available data and avoid presenting preliminary information as conclusive. Sourcing and Attribution All information attributed to sources must be accurate and properly credited. We use direct quotes only when verified and contextualized appropriately. When sources request anonymity, we grant it only when the information is significant and cannot be obtained through attribution, and we explain to readers why anonymity was necessary. We maintain independence from our sources and do not allow source relationships to compromise our editorial judgment. Multiple sources are required for significant claims, particularly those involving criticism or controversy. Independence and Conflicts of Interest Our journalists disclose any financial interests, personal relationships, or other potential conflicts that could influence their reporting. Reporters do not cover companies or individuals with whom they have financial relationships. Our editorial team remains independent from commercial interests, and advertising does not influence news coverage. We do not accept gifts or favors from sources that could compromise our objectivity. All freelance contributors sign agreements affirming their commitment to these standards. Corrections and Accountability We correct errors promptly and transparently. Significant corrections are published prominently, and we maintain a public corrections archive. We welcome reader feedback and take correction requests seriously. Our commitment to accountability extends to acknowledging when our coverage has been inadequate or unbalanced. Artificial Intelligence Disclosure Africa Trade Monitor uses AI tools to assist with research, data analysis, and initial content organization. However, all published articles are written and edited by human journalists who take full responsibility for accuracy and editorial judgment. We disclose AI use in our reporting process when it materially affects how information was gathered or analyzed. We do not publish AI-generated articles without substantial human editorial oversight and verification. Reader Trust Our credibility depends on consistent adherence to these standards. We welcome questions about our processes and remain transparent about our editorial decisions. Readers can contact our editorial team with concerns or feedback at [email protected]. These standards are reviewed annually and updated to reflect evolving best practices in journalism and technology.