By Hannah Dadzie
As the global media landscape continues to evolve, African media outlets are facing increasing challenges in sourcing high-quality, locally relevant content. To address this, some media practitioners are calling for greater collaboration among African media organizations to ensure a more robust and independent news ecosystem.
Traditionally, many African media outlets have relied on international news agencies or foreign broadcasters to fill gaps in their coverage. While these partnerships have provided access to global news, they have also raised concerns about the potential for bias or a lack of understanding of local contexts.
During the 59th Young African Journalists Workshop in Cairo, Egypt participants engaged in lively discussions with seasoned Al Ahram journalists, sharing insights and experiences from their respective countries. A central theme that emerged was the untapped potential of collaboration among African media outlets to produce high-quality, impactful stories.
During a visit to the Al Ahram Weekly, and Al Ahram, Hebdo Newspapers, Executive Managing Editor, Ahram Online Dina Samak, said by collaborating with each other, we can ensure that our narratives are authentic, relevant, and driven by our own priorities.
“This is a good idea we must collaborate with each other to help in our story production and other endeavors. African media should be telling African stories” Madam Samak said
One of the key benefits of intra-continental collaboration is the ability to share resources and expertise. Madam Samak supports the idea that by pooling journalists, photographers, and technical staff, African media outlets can enhance their coverage of important events and issues, such as elections, natural disasters, and economic developments.
Again, collaboration can help to reduce the cost of producing news content.
Participants at the ongoing 59th Young African journalist workshop believe that by sharing footage, interviews, and other materials, African media organizations can save time and money, allowing them to invest more in investigative journalism and in-depth reporting. However, the challenges to achieving greater collaboration are significant. Differences in language, culture, and technological infrastructure can create barriers to communication and cooperation. Additionally, concerns about intellectual property rights and competition can make it difficult for media outlets to share content.
To overcome these challenges, experts suggest the following steps:
- Establish regional media networks: These networks can provide a platform for African media outlets to share information, coordinate coverage, and develop joint projects.
- Invest in training and capacity building: By providing journalists with the skills and tools they need to produce high-quality content, African media organizations can enhance their ability to collaborate effectively.
- Promote cross-border partnerships: Encouraging media outlets from different countries to work together on specific stories or projects can help to break down barriers and foster a sense of shared purpose.
- Advocate for supportive policies: Governments and international organizations can play a crucial role in creating a favorable environment for media collaboration by promoting freedom of the press, protecting intellectual property rights, and investing in digital infrastructure.
Managing News Editor of Ahram Weekly Newspaper, Inas Mazhar, who supported the call
The visit to Al Ahram and other media entities served as a catalyst for participants to explore the possibilities of intra-continental collaboration. As they continued their journalistic journeys, they expressed a commitment to working together to create a more informed and connected Africa.
Other media entities the participants visited included Middle East News Agency (MENA), Al Ahkbar Newspaper, Egyptian Press Syndicate and Media Production City.
As the African continent continues to grow and develop, there is an urgent need for a strong and independent media sector that can inform and empower citizens. By working together, African media organizations can play a vital role in shaping the narrative of their continent and ensuring that the voices of their people are heard.