Egypt’s commitment to strengthening continental media ties was on full display as the Union of African Journalists (UAJ) formally concluded its 63rd Training Course, named the “Mahfouz El-Ansary Course,” in Cairo on Thursday 11th September 2026
Organized by the Union in close collaboration with Egypt’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the initiative brought together a distinguished cohort of Egyptian and African media professionals as part of broader efforts to promote knowledge sharing across the continent.
?Addressing attendees during the closing ceremony, Dr. Mohamed Fayez Farhat, President of the UAJ and Chairman of the Board of Directors at Al-Ahram Foundation, emphasized that continuous communication among African journalists remains a cornerstone for building inter-state cooperation.
He highlighted the urgent need to modernise journalists’ skill sets to navigate rapid digital transformations, particularly the rising integration of artificial intelligence in newsroom operations.
?Echoing these priorities, Counselor Reem Hindi, Member of the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Media Regulation, stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between the Council and the UAJ to elevate professional capabilities and uphold rigorous media ethics.
Representing international delegates, Marie-Louise, President of the Journalists’ Union of Côte d’Ivoire, expressed appreciation for Egypt’s ongoing support of African journalists and advocated for expanded training exchanges nationwide.
?A central moment of the ceremony was a special tribute paid to veteran journalist Mahfouz El-Ansary in recognition of his more than 35 years of dedicated service to African journalism. The honor was accepted on his behalf by his wife, Mrs. Nagwa Khalil, who expressed deep gratitude for the continental recognition.
?The event drew several high-profile diplomats and media leaders, including Counselor Osama Reihan of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mona Omar, veteran journalist Abdullah Hassan, and Dr. Samia Abbas, Secretary General of the UAJ. By addressing contemporary technological tools alongside fundamental ethics, the 63rd training course reaffirmed Egypt’s pivotal role in fostering a connected, skilled, and resilient African press.
The training mostly focuses on Curricula Digital transformations, Artificial Intelligence in media, media ethics, data journalism, and conflict reporting because in today's world, digital media has taken over every sector and so journalists must know how to use it and use it responsibly..
The participants who include 18 young journalists from 15 African countries alongside Egyptian media professionals were Exhilarated for the opportunity to meet their counterparts from other African countries.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating 63rd cohort, the participants' valedictorian expressed appreciation for the host nation’s hospitality, academic rigor, and logistical support.
The address praised the Union’s commitment to accessibility, particularly the deliberate inclusion and integration of journalists with disabilities throughout the modules.
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Beyond academic training, the cohort engaged in cultural exchanges and visits to key historic and media landmarks, prominent companies amongst others.
The delegation concluded with a collective pledge to act as responsible storytellers who challenge negative stereotypes, report with accuracy, and collaborate across borders to highlight Africa’s growth on the global stage.
