The Second Pan-African Network of Independent Media Councils Summit (NIMCA), held in the scenic city of Arusha, brought together influential voices from across Africa to chart a transformative course for journalism and media regulation on the continent.
The summit, guided by the theme “Advancing Media and Communication Regulations for Journalism Excellence in Africa,” created a vibrant space for collaboration, reflection, and renewed commitment to press freedom, professionalism, and policy reform.
Addressing participants at the summit, UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Susan Ngongi Namondo, delivered a thoughtful message on the importance of modernizing Africa’s media landscape in response to digital disruption.
She noted that the rapid growth of digital platforms and mobile technology has empowered communities to share their own stories and engage in public dialogue, but it has also introduced new challenges such as misinformation, online harassment, and threats to press sustainability.
“This summit is taking place at a defining moment for journalism and communication in Africa,” she said.
“Modernizing our media laws is critical if we are to foster trust, openness, and professionalism in the information age.”
Namondo applauded Tanzania’s efforts to revise key laws, including amendments to the Cyber Crimes Act and the Media Services Act, as steps toward building a more enabling media environment.
She also highlighted the importance of integrating media and digital literacy into national education systems to prepare citizens to critically engage with information in an increasingly complex digital world.
Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, who officiated the opening of the summit on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasized the media’s responsibility in shaping inclusive societies, promoting economic development, and amplifying Africa’s authentic narratives.
In a strongly-worded address, he encouraged African journalists to reclaim the continent’s story from decades of misrepresentation.
“For too long, Africa’s story has been told through external lenses, often defined by conflict and fragility,” said Dr. Mpango. “It is time to tell stories of our strength, resilience, innovation, and cultural pride — through our own voice and perspective.”
He underscored the need for African media to adopt a values-based approach to new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence. While AI presents immense opportunities in news production and dissemination, it also poses serious ethical questions and potential for manipulation. He called for forward-looking regulatory frameworks that protect public interest and uphold journalistic ethics in the face of evolving technology.
In addition, Dr. Mpango challenged media houses across the continent to make access to information truly inclusive. He stressed the importance of tailoring content to reach marginalized populations — including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and rural communities — through thoughtful programming, accessible language, and equitable distribution.
The Vice President further reminded participants of the critical role of media councils in maintaining professional standards and protecting the integrity of journalism.
He called on these bodies to handle public complaints with fairness and transparency, while also investing in the capacity building of journalists to withstand and counteract the rising tide of disinformation.
Throughout the summit, discussions touched on the diversity of media council models across Africa, their operational structures, and the legal environments that support or inhibit their effectiveness. Ministers and media leaders from several African nations shared insights on policy harmonization, investment in local content, and innovations that can strengthen accountability and sustainability in the media sector.
The gathering also served as a moment of reflection and gratitude. The Media Council of Tanzania posthumously honored former President Ali Hassan Mwinyi for his unwavering support of freedom of expression, a legacy that laid the foundation for the council's establishment. Vice President Mpango extended heartfelt congratulations to President Hussein Ali Mwinyi and the entire Mwinyi family for the recognition, reaffirming the enduring importance of leadership in protecting press freedoms.
As the summit concluded, a powerful sense of unity and purpose emerged among participants. The message was clear: building a professional, ethical, and inclusive media ecosystem in Africa is both a responsibility and a shared opportunity.
By embracing innovation, reforming outdated laws, and placing the public interest at the heart of journalism, Africa’s media sector can truly become a catalyst for sustainable development and democratic resilience.
“Together, we can imagine and build an Africa where journalism thrives — where it informs, includes, and inspires,” said Susan Ngongi Namondo in her closing message. “And that Africa is within our reach.”
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