By Jeremiah Nutsugah
The Public Affairs Officer of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Rebecca Ekpe, has explained that the future of the African Media Convention is set to take shape as both Morocco and Ethiopia have submitted bids to host the fourth edition of the event.
Speaking in a post-event interview in Accra, she said this move will bring the prestigious media convention to North Africa, marking a significant milestone in the history of the African Media Convention.
The theme for this year’s program was “Enhancing Freedom and Environmental Sustainability in a Dynamic Media Landscape”.
“The Steering Committee is poised to make a decision on the hosting country. Although the final decision has not yet been made, it is anticipated that by close of June, the host country will be announced, taking over from Ghana to continue the celebration and organisation of the African Media Convention,” said Madam Ekpe.
During the recent Convention in Accra, Ghana, a comprehensive working document was produced, culminating in a communiqué or declaration. This document will be finalised and released to address key issues that emerged, which will be points of discussion and follow-ups in future conventions.
Madam Ekpe also announced that future plans for the convention include ongoing conversations and engagement among attendees. Numerous platforms have been created to facilitate these discussions at personal, country, and regional levels.
“By the next African Media Convention, it is expected that many stories of engagement and networking will be shared, reflecting the robust interactions initiated in Accra.”
The success of the Third African Media Convention was made possible by the collective efforts of various stakeholders.
“Special thanks are extended to all journalists who participated, the sponsors, the steering committee, and the Local Organising Committee. Particular recognition goes to Fatimatu Abubakar, the Minister of Information, GJA President, Albert Dwumfour, and Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who supported the vision for the Convention coming to Ghana, of cause through the then Information Minister, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah.”
The Ghana Journalists Association and all contributors played crucial roles in ensuring the 3rd African Media Convention’s success. As the African Media Convention moves forward, there is a shared commitment to continue working towards upholding press freedom for the betterment of society.
