In this era of rapid digital advancements, African storytellers hold the key to transforming communities. The African Union (AU), through the Information and Communication Directorate (ICD), launched the 2^nd cohort of the AU Media Fellowship Programme (AUMF) on the 12^th of July, 2023, a transformative platform to shape the African story and create a more accurate representation of Africa's progress and challenges. 

Over the two-week application period, mid-senior level African journalists from across the continent and diaspora who want to make a difference in the continent's media reporting were encouraged to apply. The AUMF selection committee has received an unprecedented number of applications, each highlighting the immense passion and dedication of Africa's emerging media talents. The committee is humbled by the level of enthusiasm and determination demonstrated by all applicants.

"We are thrilled to witness the tremendous interest and enthusiasm from the talented media practitioners across Africa," said Leslie Richer, the African Union Director for Information and Communication. "The high number of applications showcases the necessity for media development and the pursuit of excellence in journalism throughout the continent.” Through the fellowship, the AU seeks to boost ownership of key policies and programs and accelerate the achievement of goals under its Agenda 2063, which centre around delivering socio-economic and developmental changes on the continent.

The AUMF aims to revolutionise African media by promoting cross-border coverage, encouraging collaboration between journalists and policymakers, and challenging harmful stereotypes about the continent. It has successfully attracted a diverse pool of applicants from various countries and backgrounds. Through this fellowship, selected candidates will have the unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience, access specialised training, and collaborate with industry-leading media organisations.

In support of the Fellowship programme, Dr Tobias Thiel, Country Director of the Deutsche Gesellschaft Für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (Giz) Liaison Office to The African Union, said, "We are excited to support the African Union Media Fellowship on behalf of Germany, as it aligns with our mission to promote sustainable development

and support African media professionals. The fellowship's focus on hands-on training, mentorship, and networking opportunities will provide valuable skills and experiences for them to use in their work, contributing to a stronger and more independent African media sector and enabling them to make a positive change in the narrative."

As of July 23^rd, 2023, the African Union Media Fellowship has officially concluded its application period. Now, the dedicated selection committee embarks on a meticulous review of all submissions, focusing on innovation and the power to challenge harmful stereotypes while promoting balanced discourse about the continent. Each application will be carefully evaluated, and shortlisted candidates will receive direct email notifications by August 15^th, 2023, advancing to the next phase of the selection process.

The African Union Media Fellowship is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the media landscape, empowering African journalists, storytellers, and media professionals who play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and driving positive change across the continent.

In an exciting twelve-month journey, the AUMF will offer selected fellows an immersive and transformative experience. The programme will commence by end August 2023, with a virtual induction session paving the way for a three-day Media Lab session to complete story pitches included with the applicants' online submissions. The months ahead promise rich opportunities as the fellows embark on their first in-person study tour in October 2023, gaining invaluable training and access to AU policymakers. This will be followed by a period from November 2023 to January 2024 dedicated to continuous refinement of their pitch stories while participating in online certified training and master classes facilitated by industry experts.

In February 2024, the fellows will embark on their second study tour, receiving personalised mentorship to develop their skills and further engage with AU policymakers. The culmination in June 2024 will bring a final study tour, offering additional in-person training and best practice sessions. Finally, in July 2024, the fellowship will draw to a celebratory close with a momentous closing event, where the dedicated fellows will receive certificates, marking the successful completion of their transformative African Union Media Fellowship.

Note to Editor 

The AU Media Fellowship programme is implemented by the African Union (AU), Information and Communication directorate, supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

For further information, please contact:

Ms Faith Adhiambo |  Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail:  ochiengj@african-union.org AUMediaFellowship@Africa-union.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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