In one training room in Bamako, ideas, voices, and vision came alive. For five days, from March 23 to 27, a new generation of African language media practitioners gathered to learn, create, and reimagine the future.
The training was organized by the African Academy of Languages under the African Union. It was led by Professor Dr. Vicensia Shule, Acting Executive Secretary of ACALAN.
Fifteen participants from the Conservatoire Creative School in Mali took part. From day one, the energy was clear. This was not just training. It was a shift.
Sessions were led by Nutifafa Yawa Francina Feyi, an African languages media expert. Practical. Direct. Engaging. Participants did not just listen. They worked.
They explored:
- Writing news in African languages
- Producing strong scripts for radio and TV
- Handling translation challenges
- Navigating cultural sensitivity
- Recording and editing audio and video
- Telling digital stories that travel
- Applying ethics in real newsroom situations
- Creating content that speaks to Agenda 2063
As the days progressed, confidence grew. Ideas flowed. Perspectives changed.
“This has opened our eyes,” several participants said. “We now see the opportunities.”
They went further. Reflective. Honest.
“We did not know this is what actual journalists go through,” one participant shared. “We used to think every content creator was a journalist. Now we know the difference. And we realise it is not easy. Especially the translation aspect.”
That realisation stayed with the group. It deepened their respect for the craft. It sharpened their focus.
They are ready now. Ready to produce. Ready to contribute. Ready to feed the ACALAN AU Media space with authentic African stories.
Then came a powerful moment.
Participants visited a fully equipped media studio. A modern facility. Ready for five years. But never used.
For the first time, Professor Dr Vicensia Shule stepped inside. She paused. She smiled. She expressed deep joy.
Finally, the space will come to life. Finally, it will serve its purpose.
That moment captured the spirit of the training. Unlocking what already exists. And putting it to work.
ACALAN AU Media now moves forward with a clear mission. To bring the African Union closer to the people. In languages they understand. In voices they trust.
Content production will begin in Bambara. Other African languages will follow in phases. The goal is reach. The goal is impact.
This comes at a significant time. ACALAN marks 20 years of promoting African languages across the continent. The Bamako training signals a new chapter. One driven by media, storytelling, and visibility.
The programme closed on a high note. Certificates were awarded. But more importantly, a network was born.
A network of creators. Of storytellers. Of language champions.
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