The African Union Media Fellowship (AUMF) concluded its most recent cohort with a closing ceremony in Addis Ababa, showcasing innovative projects developed by 20 fellows from across the continent. The event recognised journalism and media initiatives that have advanced democracy, governance, and socio-economic development.

The fellows’ projects spanned a wide range of issues, including digital rights, civic tech, climate action, migration, sexual and reproductive health, and women’s rights as outlined in the Maputo Protocol. The ceremony also acknowledged the support of GIZ, UNESCO, and the European Union, key partners in delivering the fellowship. Launched in April 2022 by the AU’s Information and Communication Directorate, the fellowship equips journalists and content creators with access to policymakers, grants, mentorship, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. By funding, mentoring, and training media professionals to produce development-focused stories using emerging technologies, the programme supports the creation of high-quality content that strengthens democracy, governance, and human rights.

In her rremarks, Leslie Richer, Director of Information & Communication, commended the graduates for their dedication to amplifying African voices and telling stories that reflect the continent’s realities, challenges, and successes. “With over 6,000 applicants from Africa and the diaspora, these young professionals have sharpened their skills, built lasting networks, and produced impactful content. I encourage them to uphold the highest standards of journalism, challenge misinformation, and use their platforms to drive meaningful change,” she said.

She also expressed appreciation to donors and partners including GIZ, the European Union, UNESCO, Member States, media institutions, mentors, and staff for their role in supporting the fellowship and strengthening media capacity across Africa.

Franz von Weizsäcker, Programme Head of GIZ’s DataCipation Programme, noted: “GIZ has supported the AU Media Fellowship since its inception. I am pleased that the second cohort has graduated, contributing significantly to shaping narratives about the continent.”

Pascal Delisle, Head of Political and Press Section at the EU Delegation to the AU, added: “It is a special moment to see the achievements of this cohort. The EU is proud to partner in this programme, which enables African journalists and content creators to fulfil their vital role in democracy telling stories from local and continental perspectives, ultimately shaping more complete narratives.”

Highlights from Fellows’ Work

During the fellowship, participants developed and implemented impactful projects:

1. Civic Tech & Elections Fact-Checking Toolkit – Developed by alumni Jibi Moses and Thantan Maurice to equip journalists in Benin, South Sudan, The Gambia, and Tunisia to verify political claims during elections, promoting transparency and informed voting.

2. Women Beyond Borders – Ugandan journalist and filmmaker Nila Yasmin Faisal profiled women entrepreneurs and policymakers across borders, gaining international media coverage and launching Narrativ Studios for documentary production.

3. Green African Idea Lab – Founded by Rim Ben Khalifa to empower marginalised voices on climate issues, producing 15 works and generating nearly 39,000 social media engagements.

4. Les Canettes en Aluminium, Comme Moyen de Survie – A documentary by Damaso Esono highlighting women’s environmental entrepreneurship through aluminium can recycling in Central Africa.

5. Trailblazing African Women – A video podcast series by Adesewa Olofinko telling the stories of five pioneering women in Africa’s history, combining real-life documentation, animation, and expert interviews.

6. Digital Security Toolkit for Female Journalism Students – Created by Kenyan alumna Cecilia Maundu to address online safety challenges for women journalists, offering practical guidance on digital hygiene, legal rights, and psychosocial wellbeing.

The fellowship enabled participants to engage in major events such as the AU Summit, EU elections, COP27, and the Africa Climate Summit, as well as study tours to European institutions in Brussels, Berlin, the South African Broadcasting Corporation, and the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation. These experiences broadened their understanding of governance, strengthened reporting skills, and enhanced the quality of their work.

The closing ceremony reinforced the fellowship’s role in preparing the next generation of African media professionals to deliver credible, impactful storytelling. As the second cohort graduates, preparations are underway for Cohort III, with applications opening soon. Journalists and content creators from across Africa and the diaspora will once again have the opportunity to gain skills, resources, and networks to produce stories that inform, engage, and inspire.

For further information, please contact:
Faith Adhiambo | Communication Officer, Agenda 2063 | Directorate of Information and Communication| African Union Commission | E-mail ochiengj@africanunion.org