3/9/25
The 2nd Pan-African Media Councils’ Summit in Arusha, Tanzania, pictured, concluded with a commitment to promote inclusive, rights-based media regulation across the continent, advancing credible, independent, and ethical journalism in Africa.
Hosted by the Network of Independent Media Councils of Africa in collaboration with the Media Council of Tanzania, the gathering brought together representatives from 13 media councils alongside journalism and media bodies, policymakers, civil society actors, academics, editors, and international development partners from across Africa and beyond.
Held under the theme Advancing Media and Communication Regulations for Journalism Excellence in Africa, the summit underscored the continent’s collective resolve to strengthen self- and co-regulatory systems in line with democratic principles.
AI opportunities
One of the main issues was the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on journalism. Delegates explored both the immense opportunities and the ethical complexities posed by AI technologies in news production and content governance. In a speech, Tanzanian Vice President Philip Mpango stressed the urgency of addressing the unchecked spread of disinformation and hate speech in the digital age.
Participants reaffirmed the relevance of the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, which calls on states to enable impartial, inclusive, and cost-effective self-regulation mechanisms.
The summit also generated a strong push for gender equity and disability inclusion in media regulation. Delegates agreed to institutionalise gender balance in all NIMCA governance structures and prioritise accessible content, inclusive newsroom cultures, and regulatory standards that reflect diverse lived experiences. UNESCO’s Practical Manual and Master Class on Disability Equality in the Media was endorsed as a key tool to guide editorial, operational, and content adjustments for accessibility.
Transparency and accountability
With support from UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and the Safety of Journalists, the Media Council of Tanzania will lead efforts to help African media councils revise editorial policies, embed inclusive practices, and set technical benchmarks for accessible content.
The summit also reaffirmed NIMCA’s backing of UNESCO’s Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms, highlighting the need for editorial independence, transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in safeguarding freedom of expression and access to information.
NIMCA extended an open invitation to voluntary self-regulation and statutory independent news content regulatory councils across Africa to join the network. Through documenting good practices, building capacity, and fostering regional cooperation, NIMCA and UNESCO aim to advance a pluralistic and inclusive media landscape that truly serves all Africans.
- Article courtesy UNESCO
