Media Wire Express Correspondent
The 3rd African Media Convention (AMC) has concluded today in Accra, Ghana, after three days of insightful discussions and strategic planning around the theme “Enhancing Freedom, Innovation, and Environmental Sustainability in a Dynamic Media Landscape”.
This global gathering of media professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders has set a new benchmark for addressing the critical challenges facing the African media industry. The convention was graced by the presence of Ghana’s President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who delivered the closing remarks, underscoring the importance of this event for the continent’s future.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the media’s pivotal role in combating the environmental crisis ravaging Africa. “The press, which is considered as the fourth estate of the realm, constitutes a segment of society that has an indirect but influential role in political systems under democracies. In the area of climate change, journalists play a crucial role in countering false narratives on climate change and environmental crises through proactive, accurate, and objective reporting.”
The convention also featured speeches from other esteemed guests, including Dr. Rita Bissoonauth, the Director of the UNESCO Addis Ababa Liaison Office to the African Union and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and James Deane, the Co-Founder of the International Fund for Public Interest Media.
Also Read:Ghana’s Status As Second-Largest Cocoa Producer Threatened
Dr. Bissoonauth underscored the urgency of addressing the environmental challenges facing the continent, stating, “Climate change has contributed to increasing heat recorded in history, with 2023 being the warmest on record at +1.48 °C since regular tracking began in 1850. The media has a responsibility to keep everyone informed about the adverse effects of human activities and ultimately, the protection of our environment.”
James Deane, in his remarks, emphasized the need for strengthening collaboration between media organizations, civil society, governments, and international bodies to promote and protect press freedom and freedom of expression. “Together, let us embark on this journey towards a prosperous future, where environmental sustainability shines brightly, and climate-smart reporting becomes a force for social and economic advancement in Africa.”
The 3rd African Media Convention has undoubtedly set the stage for a new era of media-driven solutions to the continent’s most pressing environmental and societal challenges. As the delegates depart Accra, the resounding call for action and unity echoes across the African continent, inspiring a renewed commitment to a sustainable and empowered media landscape.
