Malawi's Inaugural Media Conference to Address 2025 Election Information Flow
The conference aims to provide a platform for dialogue among media stakeholders, electoral officials, civil society organizations, and policymakers.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The much-anticipated Annual Media and Access to Information Conference is on from Thursday in Malawi, focusing on information flow ahead of the country's 2025 general elections, writes Winston Mwale.
The two-day event, known as AMATIC24, will take place at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe. It marks the first collaboration of its kind between the Malawi Human Rights Commission and the Media Council of Malawi.
"The theme for this year's conference is 'Promoting Free Flow of Information Towards the 2025 General Elections,'" organizers said in a joint statement.
"This theme underscores the importance of ensuring that all citizens have access to reliable and accurate information as we approach this critical electoral period."
The conference aims to provide a platform for dialogue among media stakeholders, electoral officials, civil society organizations, and policymakers.
Activities will include a solidarity march, panel discussions, and exhibitions showcasing innovations in electoral transparency and civic engagement.
Justice Anabel Mtalimanja, chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission, will serve as the guest of honour.
Teresa Ndanga, commissioner and chairperson of the Malawi Human Rights Commission, is slated to deliver the keynote address.
"We believe that this conference will provide a crucial opportunity for dialogue and action, creating a more informed, engaged, and empowered citizenry as we approach the 2025 general elections," the statement added.
The event will also recognize institutions that have excelled in implementing Malawi's Access to Information Law.
Coinciding with the International Day for Universal Access to Information, the conference emphasizes the link between transparent governance and the right to access information in promoting democracy and human rights protection.
*Download the programme below:
