African Media Summit Opens With Youth Voices, Digital Innovation
The summit, whose theme is "Re-engineering African Media in Times of Critical Transformation," runs through May 10 in Nairobi.
NAIROBI, Kenya -- The 2024 AllAfrica Media Leaders' Summit kicked off its first day Wednesday with a focus on the next generation, as over 300 media owners, government officials and others gathered to re-engineer the future of African media, writes Winston Mwale.
The three-day summit in Nairobi brings together top executives, academics and development partners from across the continent to discuss "Re-engineering African Media in Times of Critical Transformation" — the event's overarching theme.
While plenaries will examine pillars like economic transformation, AI digitization, misinformation and sustainable business models, Day 1 highlighted youth voices through a public debate at the University of Nairobi.
Dubbed the "Digizens' Circle," the session allowed young Africans to weigh in on whether existing media is meeting their needs.
It featured a keynote from opinion leader Mark Masai on the continent's youth and progress.
"Are you getting what you need from the media?" was the driving question as participants engaged through digital tools and a moderated group discussion.
A mixed reality and media fair over the lunch hour showcased innovations happening in media spaces across the region.
The evening welcome reception, emceed by Ali Kabre, launched the 2024 State of African Media Report.
Ellington Kamba from USAGM presented the report's highlights.
In opening remarks, organizers emphasized how economic development, social progress and effective governance hinge on "fair, accurate and reliable information dissemination in the digital era."
The summit agenda revolves around six pillars: African economic transformation, AI/technology, regional integration, countering misinformation, governance standards and sustainable business models.
Other Day 1 events included showcasing three pioneering youth-led newsroom innovations.
The summit, which aims to re-examine media's role amid rapid change, runs through May 10 in Nairobi.