By Mabel Adorkor Annang
African media and diplomatic leaders have urged young journalists across the continent to embrace responsible journalism and actively counter misinformation, warning that Africa’s identity and stability are increasingly under threat in the digital age.
The call was made at the opening of the 62nd training course for 20 young African journalists in Cairo, organised by the Union of African Journalists in partnership with Egypt’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation.
Addressing participants at the ceremony on behalf of the President of the Union of African Journalists, Ambassador Mohamed Hegazy described the training as a strategic investment in Africa’s future, particularly at a time of global uncertainty.
“Amid global conflicts and rapid transformations, the responsibility on journalists has doubled. You are not only reporting events; you are verifying truth, shaping awareness, and defending the interests of your societies.”Ambassador Hegazy said.
He urged participants to take their role seriously, adding that “African journalists must be capable of presenting credible narratives that reflect the continent’s realities, challenges, and aspirations.”
Advisor to the Union of African Journalists, Ambassador Ahmed Haggag, said Africa must refocus on the core mandate of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) if the continent is to fully benefit from the positive impact of trading among its own economies.
“The AfCFTA was created to promote intra-African trade, industrialisation, and value addition, but these objectives can only be realised if member states move beyond commitments on paper to concrete implementation,” He noted.
Counselor Reem Hendi, representing the Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation, Counselor Yasser El-Mabadi, stressed that professionalism in journalism is now more critical than ever.
“Responsible journalism has become a key line of defence against digital misinformation and rumours that threaten social stability. Egypt places great importance on building sound journalistic awareness to protect societies and strengthen public trust in the media.” She said
She reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting the programme, noting that “providing technical and training support is essential to ensuring the success of such initiatives and raising professional standards across the continent.”
Secretary-General of the Union of African Journalists, Dr. Samia Abbas, highlighted the longevity of the initiative, revealing that the Union has been organising the training for five decades.
“For 50 years, these courses have aimed to achieve qualitative and intellectual advancement in African journalism. Our goal is to align journalistic practice with modern demands through workshops led by international experts.” She added.
A member of the Union’s Technical Secretariat, Ayman Adly, said the timing of the course reflects a clear understanding of the continent’s current challenges.
“Holding this programme now shows deep awareness of the pressures facing Africa and the critical role the media must play in supporting development and security,” he noted.
The training programme will focus on key issues shaping Africa’s media and development landscape, including the African Continental Free Trade Area and its implications for regional and national security, investigative journalism in the digital era, media safety in dangerous environments, and African culture as a tool of soft power.
In addition to classroom sessions, participants will embark on field visits to leading Egyptian media and cultural institutions to gain practical exposure to Egypt’s experience in media management and public awareness building.
The opening ceremony drew high-level participation from prominent media and diplomatic figures, including Amal Abdel Mottaleb, Director General of the Training Center at the Supreme Council for Media Regulation, and Ambassador Ahmed Haggag, advisor to the Union of African Journalists.
Organisers expressed optimism that participants would return to their home countries “as ambassadors of professionalism, truth, and African unity,” better equipped to counter misinformation and strengthen credible journalism across the continent.
