IUIU Participates in the 2nd Pan-African Media Councils’ Summit in Tanzania
The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) was represented in the 2nd Pan-African Media Councils’ Summit held recently in Arusha, Tanzania. The four-day (14-17 July, 2025) summit themed “Advancing Media and Communication Regulations for Journalism Excellence in Africa,” brought together key stakeholders in media and communication such as academicians, media professionals, regulators, and policy experts from Africa and beyond to reflect on the future of journalism, reimagine regulatory frameworks, and strengthen public trust and professionalism in the media industry.
Representing IUIU at the summit was Dr. Muyingo Rajab Idd, who joined other Ugandan delegates from the Media Council of Uganda, the New Vision group, UBC TV, Media Focus on Africa, and Blue Cube Company. For the Islamic University in Uganda, participating in the Pan-African Media Councils’ Summit enhances its regional and global engagement, facilitates knowledge sharing, and opens up opportunities for collaboration with media and communication institutions across Africa.
Throughout the summit, participants explored critical topics affecting the contemporary media landscape, including the influence of artificial intelligence on journalism, the importance of data protection and digital privacy, strategies to combat misinformation and disinformation, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion in media organizations. These discussions benefited from insights from experts across Africa, Asia, and Europe.
During the keynote address, Dr Tawfik Jelassi, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Communications, raised concerns about the increasing threats to media freedom and public trust stemming from technological advancements and financial instability. He urged increased support and funding for media councils, asserting that upholding media integrity requires collective efforts rather than relying on a single entity. To achieve journalism excellence in Africa, Dr. Tawfik advocated for collaboration among all stakeholders, including academic institutions that offer journalism training in Africa, media councils, policymakers, journalists, and human rights activists across the continent.
