The African Union Commission (AUC), through its Information and Communication Directorate (ICD), has announced the upcoming African Union Media Fellowship (AUMF) 3.0 Fireside Chat Series, a virtual dialogue focusing on the role of media in strengthening democratic processes, electoral integrity, and accountable governance across Africa.
Scheduled for 12 June 2026 at 11:00 AM EAT, the session will convene journalists, media professionals, and governance experts under the theme: “The Role of Media in Strengthening Democratic Processes, Electoral Integrity, and Accountable Governance Across the Continent.”
The African Union Media Fellowship (AUMF) is an initiative of the AUC designed to strengthen African storytelling by equipping journalists with mentorship, training, and engagement with AU institutions. The programme supports reporting on key Agenda 2063 priorities, including governance, peace and security, regional integration, and sustainable development.
The Fireside Chat Series provides a platform for dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing journalism in Africa today. Discussions will focus on electoral reporting, misinformation and disinformation, media independence, and building public trust in democratic institutions.
From the perspective of the African Academy of Languages (ACALAN) and broader language advocacy movements on the continent, such continental conversations also underline an important reality: the effectiveness of media in strengthening democracy depends not only on what is said, but also on the languages used to reach citizens. African languages remain central to ensuring that governance information is fully understood, widely accessible, and deeply rooted in local communities.
While the AUC call focuses broadly on media engagement, expanding communication through African languages enhances participation, strengthens civic awareness, and ensures that democratic processes are inclusive at the grassroots level.
The session will be moderated by Cynthia Areh (Arise TV, AUMF Fellow) and will feature Cynthia Mbamalu (Yiaga Africa), Cayley Clifford (Africa Check), and Waihiga Mwaura (BBC Focus on Africa).
Media representatives are invited to participate in this continental dialogue shaping Africa’s democratic future.
Registration: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_2szfz3WnToWFJjUQVwoDYQ