The African Union Commission, through its Information and Communication Directorate of the African Union Commission (AU-ICD), has announced the 22 Fellows selected for Cohort 3.0 of the African Union Media Fellowship (AUMF). The Fellows, drawn from 18 African countries, reflect the continent’s diversity, dynamism, and growing excellence in journalism and African storytelling
The newly selected Fellows include Abdillah Kemba (Comoros), Bongekile Filana (South Africa), Cynthia Areh (Nigeria), Isatou Keita (Gambia), Justina Matandiko (Zambia), Lourdes Walusala (Kenya), Mapule Motsopa (Lesotho), Michael Dewornu (Ghana), Salome Gregory (Tanzania), Tawanda Forgive Dube (Zimbabwe), Tina Mehnpaine (Liberia), and Zodidi Mhlana (South Africa), among others.
African media plays an essential role in informing citizens and encouraging both public and diaspora engagement with continental institutions. Through people-centred storytelling, journalists help bridge the gap between policy and communities, fostering accountability and public dialogue aligned with the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
According to Wynne Musabayana, Head of the Communication Division at the African Union Commission, the Fellows were selected from more than 100,000 applications, reflecting growing interest among African media professionals in shaping the continent’s narrative.
During the 16-month fellowship programme, participants will receive mentorship, professional training and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. Cohort 3.0 also introduces a Public Health Track in partnership with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to strengthen reporting on public health issues.
The fellowship is supported by partners including the European Union and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and contributes to strengthening African-led narratives in support of the continent’s development agenda.