This major event brings together the Managing Directors of African news agencies, media experts and eminent personalities from the African Atlantic region who will explore ways to strengthen African sovereignty, through information and dynamic initiatives along of the Atlantic coast.
In this context, the opening session will discuss ways and means of deepening reflection through a panel under the theme “African Sovereignty in Action: Perspectives on Information and the Initiative for the Atlantic Front”.
The preservation of African information sovereignty is a challenge that challenges all media in the region, particularly national press agencies, called upon to evolve their media discourse and adapt it, both on an individual level. as collective, to highlight African specificities in their cultural, political and economic diversity, within the framework of an approach of cooperation and common development.
In light of the Royal Strategic Initiative aimed at promoting access for landlocked Sahel countries to the Atlantic Coast of Morocco, this panel will highlight the role of press agencies in general, and the FAAPA in particular. , in the promotion of informational cooperation at the level of the Atlantic coast, the support of development initiatives in the Sahelo-Atlantic zone, and in the preservation of the media sovereignty of the countries of the continent.
Likewise, participants in this General Assembly will explore, through interactive sessions, debates, and sharing of experiences, the means by which African press agencies can play a central role in asserting the sovereignty of the continent. African.
An important conference at the Policy Center for the New South of the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University will also be organized as part of this two-day General Assembly to discuss the multiple facets of the potential of the African Atlantic, and explore avenues for sustainable development. and regional integration at the level of this region.
The participants will also examine the final report of the 6th General Assembly of FAAPA, the reports on the meetings of the Executive Council, and on the training seminars, the financial report, in addition to the adoption of resolutions and recommendations.
The General Assembly will also be marked by the presentation, on Tuesday, of the FAAPA Media Grand Prize 2022 & 2023 (prize for best article, best video report and best photo), and the signing of cooperation agreements and partnership between certain press agencies that are members of the Federation.
Created on October 14, 2014 in Casablanca, the Atlantic Federation of African Press Agencies constitutes a professional platform for reflection on the future of press agencies and on the role they must play in the 21st century in their respective diversities and specificities, taking into account the profound changes which characterize the media landscape in the context of globalization and in the multimedia era.
The Federation, which has 30 press agencies and professional groups, aims to promote cooperation and the exchange of experiences between press agencies in all areas of common interest, including information, training and multimedia products.
It has set itself the objectives of establishing a strategic partnership and developing professional relations between press agencies, in addition to contributing to consolidating the free circulation of information, as well as strengthening cooperation and coordination in level of regional and international forums.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Amina Selassie, Media Expert and Scholar on African Communication and Sovereignty
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Selassie! It’s a pleasure to have you here as we discuss the significant event bringing together African news agencies and media experts. How vital do you think this gathering is for promoting information sovereignty on the continent?
Dr. Amina Selassie: Thank you for having me! This gathering is incredibly significant, as it provides a platform for stakeholders to collaborate on strategies that assert African sovereignty through information dissemination. It’s an essential step in addressing the challenges that many African nations face in representing their own narratives and addressing their unique cultural, political, and economic contexts.
Time.news Editor: The theme “African Sovereignty in Action: Perspectives on Information and the Initiative for the Atlantic Front” suggests a proactive approach. What do you believe are the key components for strengthening African information sovereignty?
Dr. Amina Selassie: To strengthen African information sovereignty, several components are critical. First, there needs to be a focus on collaborative efforts among media agencies across the continent that appreciate our diverse contexts. This involves creating content that accurately reflects our struggles, aspirations, and cultural identities. Second, investment in technology and infrastructure is essential, particularly in landlocked regions where access to information can be limited. Lastly, ongoing training for media professionals to adapt their narratives is crucial.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the Royal Strategic Initiative to improve access for Sahelian countries to the Atlantic Coast. How can press agencies leverage such initiatives to enhance informational cooperation?
Dr. Amina Selassie: That initiative is a perfect example of regional cooperation. Press agencies can play a pivotal role by spotlighting success stories and initiatives that improve connectivity and information flow. They can forge partnerships to share resources and best practices, creating a network effect that enables better content distribution and information sharing across borders. This also nurtures a sense of community and shared purpose among nations.
Time.news Editor: During the assembly, interactive sessions and debates will focus on the role of African press agencies. What do you envision as the outcomes of such discussions?
Dr. Amina Selassie: I expect these discussions to catalyze a collective commitment to elevating African voices in global conversations. Participants will likely emerge with actionable strategies, such as collaborative media projects, joint educational programs, and more robust frameworks for sharing journalistic resources. The goal should be to create a cohesive approach that empowers all nations within the Atlantic region.
Time.news Editor: You’ll be speaking at the conference at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. Can you give us a sneak peek of your focus during that session?
Dr. Amina Selassie: Absolutely! I will delve into the multifaceted potential of the African Atlantic region, particularly emphasizing sustainable development and regional integration. I plan to argue that our strength lies in our interconnectedness and that by pooling our resources and knowledge, we can forge a prosperous path that respects our cultural uniqueness while pursuing collective growth.
Time.news Editor: That sounds promising, Dr. Selassie. As we conclude, what message would you like to leave our audience regarding the future of African media?
Dr. Amina Selassie: My message would be one of optimism and action. The future of African media lies in unity and collaboration. By embracing our sovereignty and valuing our distinct narratives, we can shape a media landscape that not only informs but also empowers our communities. Let us commit to transforming our challenges into opportunities for growth and collaboration across borders.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Selassie, for sharing your insights with us today. We look forward to seeing the outcomes of the assembly and the impact it will have on African media going forward!
Dr. Amina Selassie: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for African media, and I look forward to contributing to this important dialogue.