Media and communication stand as cornerstones for fostering African unity, Ethiopia's Minister of Government Communication Services, Legesse Tulu (PhD), declared.
Speaking at the opening of the 15th East African Communication Association Conference in Addis Ababa, themed "Media and Communication for African Integration," GCS Minister Legesse emphasized Ethiopia's active role in promoting continental integration through infrastructure development, trade facilitation, strengthened interpersonal connections, and strategic language initiatives.
“To achieve true continental integration, we must craft narratives reflecting our shared identity and collective future," Legesse asserted, highlighting the vital role of media in shaping this collective consciousness.
He underscored that genuine integration hinges on the active engagement of media and communication platforms.
Ethiopia, Legesse explained, is committed to amplifying voices and fostering understanding through its media outreach, including initiatives broadcasting in Kiswahili and Arabic, widely spoken across East Africa.
These efforts aim to bridge linguistic divides and promote a sense of common belonging.
The conference, a gathering of media professionals and academics from across East Africa, provides a crucial forum for discussing collaborative strategies and addressing challenges.
He noted the conference will provide a vital opportunity to forge common agendas and strategize on how best to express a shared African identity through media.
Margaret Juco (Prof.), President of the Association, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to absorb knowledge that will safeguard the media sector from negative technological impacts.
She believes the discussions will prepare media professionals to navigate the evolving landscape and ensure responsible, impactful communication practices.
The conference is expected to produce concrete recommendations on how media can be leveraged to accelerate continental integration and cultivate a stronger, more unified Africa.
