All is set for the first International Media Conference, an intellectual ensemble of media professionals, policymakers, academics and civil society organisations. The conference, which holds from May 28 to 29, 2025, will explore the complex issues surrounding media regulations in the continent.
Speaking with The Guardian, the Rector Broadcast Arts Institute, Lagos and Chief Convener of conference, Matthew Okoduwa, said the gathering is designed to facilitate a rich and nuanced discussion on the complex issues surrounding media regulations.
According to him, “the media landscape in Africa undoubtedly is at a critical juncture.” He, however, added, “the media’s ability to perform its watchdog function is increasingly being hampered by a complex web of regulations, laws, and policies that often prioritise state and extraneous interests over freedom of expression.”
He said Africa’s “media landscape is characterised by a mix of liberal and authoritarian regimes, each with its own approach to media regulation. While some countries have made significant strides in promoting media freedom, others continue to impose draconian laws and regulations that stifle freedom of expression.”
Okoduwa said it is against this backdrop that the 1st International Media Conference, themed Exploring Media Regulations in Africa: Balancing Regulations and Freedom of Expression, will bring together media professionals, policymakers, academics, and civil society organizations to explore the complex issues surrounding media regulations in Africa.
Not less than six professors, led by Prof. Tonnie Iredia, will present papers. Iredia is expected to give the keynote, which is titled, Media, Politics and Power in Africa: Understanding the Complex Dynamics of Regulation, Propaganda and freedom.
The main thrust of this paper is to lay the foundation to explore the complex issues surrounding media regulations in Africa, with a focus on striking a balance between regulation and freedom of expression.
There will also be a paper on State of Media Freedom in Africa: Challenges, Opportunities, and Prospects. This theme will examine the current state of media freedom in Africa, including the challenges and opportunities facing professionals.
Regional Reports – From the Five Regions of Africa will be presented by media scholars and professionals from those regions. Also lined-up are workshop and master classes. There will be training workshop for journalists and policy makers on Media Law and Policy Advocacy Strategies (practical training for media Practitioners and advocates).
There will be a session where all speakers will constitute a special committee to proffer a pathway to better media regulations in Africa.
There will be an Aspire Night where some Individuals and organisations will be recognised for their roles in media development in Africa.
“The First International Media Conference is a call to action for all stakeholders who care about the future of media in Africa. It is an opportunity to join the conversation, share experiences, and shape the agenda for media development on the continent. Together, let us work towards promoting media freedom, independence, and pluralism in Africa,” he said.
