By Teddy Evans and Jerry Abuga
The East Africa Press Councils (EAPC) convened in Kigali, Rwanda to develop a three- year Strategic Plan. The EAPC, launched in Arusha Tanzania last year, is a body that brings together media regulatory and development organisations from the East African region embracing the spirit and aspirations of the East African community.
The Kigali event was attended by all member organisations namely the Media Council of Kenya, the Rwanda Media Commission, the Media Council of Tanzania, the Media Council of Uganda, the Federation of Somali Journalists and the Union Nationale de la Presse du Congo.
EAPC Chairperson Kajubi Mukajanga said thedeliberations aimed to deliver an East Africa with a robust media demonstrating media pluralism, diversity, independence and professionalism.
EAPC Secretary and Media Council of Kenya Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo enumerated the meeting’s objectives.
“Our focus is on five Key Strategic Areas aimed at promoting a viable media environment, developing appropriate measures for technological advancement and adoption by the media. We also seek to foster the growth and innovation of media enterprises and digital ventures in the Region, enhance content creation and collaboration in the Media Sector and to enhance EAPC institutional sustainability”, he said.
The Executive Secretary of the Rwanda Media Commission and EAPC Treasurer Emmanuel Mugisha said:“EAPC strategic intent is hinged on a strong foundation of core values which is an embodiment of our unified commitment and allegiance to the acceptable ideals”.
Secretary General of the Federation of Somali Journalists Farah Omar said: “The Strategic Plan developed is an all-inclusive document that presents the aspirations of East Africa Community. EAPC shall position itself as a key media partner for EAC and as such align its activities to the East Africa Community Priorities 2022-2026”.
The Executive Director of the Media Council of Tanzania and EAPC Board Member Ernest Sungura said: “The success of a vibrant, professional and responsible media in East Africa region is our individual responsibility and commitment. We shall work round the clock to realize our objectives and act as an example to many regions across the World”.
Media Council of Kenya’s Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire said theexistence of various regional protocols have significantly contributed to the advancement of other sectors in the region.
“EAPC will be key in championing the development of Media and Communication protocol for the Region. This will see the enhancement of cross boarder reporting and integration”, he said.
EAPC Secretariat member and The Union Nationale de la Presse du Congo’s Rosalie Zawadi said: “Our respective media associations, regulatory bodies and media development agencies are unique and this uniqueness can’t be wished away but rather incubated for the advancement of our priorities”.
Among other things, EAPC works to strengthen and promote the institution of independent media regulatory bodies in East Africa, to create awareness and to promote the concept of self-regulation through Press/Media Councils as a viable option for holding the media accountable in the region while promoting media pluralism and diversity.
It seeks to strengthen regional media integration through sustainable approaches, strategic coherence, competitive advantage while leveraging on strategic partnerships.
