MTN launches Pan-African Media Innovation Programme for journalists

By Samuella Antwi

MTN Group has launched the Pan-African Media Innovation Programme (MIP), an ambitious initiative designed to equip journalists and editors across Africa with the skills, tools and networks needed to thrive in an era of digital disruption.

The launch, held on 12 September 2025 in Johannesburg, marks the expansion of the successful Nigerian edition of the fellowship into a continent-wide programme.

Anchored by the University of Johannesburg (UJ) as the academic lead, and supported by the African Editors Forum (TAEF), the 12-week programme combines academic training, industry immersion, innovation labs and mentorship aimed at strengthening African journalism and digital storytelling.

Nompilo Morafo, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at MTN, said the programme comes at a critical time for the continent’s media.

“Information today flows instantly, often without filters. People no longer wait for a press release to understand what is happening in their world – they look online, on social platforms, where disinformation is just as present as credible reporting. Journalism is more than a profession; it is a calling. A programme like this ensures we prepare the next generation of African journalists to lead with integrity, accuracy and trust,” she said.

Ms Morafo indicated that MTN’s vision of enabling the benefits of a modern connected life would be incomplete without strengthening the credibility of information flows across the continent.

Professor Prinola Govenden, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Media at UJ, stressed the urgency of preparing African journalists for the challenges posed by emerging technologies.

“Our media landscape is being reshaped by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, social media platforms and the dominance of multinational tech giants. Journalists cannot afford to be left behind. The Pan-African curriculum will be grounded in African case studies, Afrocentric perspectives and practical industry exposure to ensure our media professionals remain relevant, innovative and sustainable,” she said.

Professor Govenden also highlighted the programme’s focus on opening doors for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“This is not just about empowering senior journalists. It is also about opening doors for first-generation graduates, the children of cleaners, taxi drivers and workers, who are hungry for opportunities to change their lives. This programme is as much about impact on individual families as it is about strengthening Africa’s media ecosystem,” she noted.

Churchill Otieno, President of the African Editors Forum (TAEF), described the initiative as a pivotal step in reclaiming Africa’s voice in global storytelling.

He stated: “Too often, coverage of Africa is filtered through external lenses, reducing our diplomacy and achievements to crises or aid negotiations. This initiative is about reframing Africa’s story on Africa’s terms. Journalism must be both a mirror and a map, reflecting our resilience, creativity and diversity, while guiding the path to unity, justice and prosperity.”

Mr Otieno acknowledged the immense challenges African journalists face, from poor connectivity in rural areas to threats in conflict zones, but noted that solidarity and innovation remain key.

“Through this programme, we will equip journalists with tools such as encrypted communication software, fact-checking techniques and mentorship networks. This is about ensuring African voices are not drowned out in the digital revolution but are instead leading it,” he stressed.

The Pan-African MIP will begin with an inaugural cohort of 73 fellows drawn from across the continent. Participants will undergo training in digital storytelling, media entrepreneurship, technology reporting and policy analysis, supported by study visits, guest lectures and cross-border mentorship.

Ms Morafo revealed that the programme has already sparked interest from external stakeholders, including Standard Bank, which has expressed willingness to support its expansion.