The city of Moroni in the Union of the Comoros provided the platform to achieve a significant milestone in media regulation and digital governance with the official opening of an international symposium on ‘New Challenges in Media and Information Literacy, and Digital Citizenship.’
The high-level event was officially inaugurated by H. E. Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros. His presence underscored the strategic importance his country places on responsible media practices and digital transformation. In his opening address, the Comorian Head of State emphasised the urgent need for African nations to strengthen media literacy and equip citizens, particularly young people, with the critical skills required to navigate today’s fast-changing and complex information landscape.
Bringing together media regulators, government officials, academics, and digital experts from across Africa and beyond, the symposium reflects a growing continental commitment to addressing the evolving challenges posed by disinformation, digital threats, and the rapid expansion of social media platforms.
Representing Cameroon, the President of the National Communication Council (NCC) led a high-level delegation comprising the Secretary General of the Council and an Assistant Research Officer from the Communication and Translation Unit. Their participation aligns with the implementation of the 2025–2026 roadmap of the African Communication Regulatory Authority Network (ACRAN), reinforcing Cameroon’s active role in shaping regional responses to emerging media challenges.
The opening ceremony, held in a formal yet convivial atmosphere at the Itsandra Beach Hotel and Resort, was marked by strong calls for enhanced cooperation among African states. Speakers highlighted the importance of integrating media and information literacy into educational curricula, promoting ethical standards in journalism, and developing robust regulatory frameworks capable of responding to digital-era threats.
A key takeaway from the ceremony was the shared recognition that media literacy is no longer optional but essential. Participants stressed that fostering critical thinking, responsibility in content creation, and informed digital citizenship are vital pillars for safeguarding democracy and social cohesion in Africa.
As the symposium unfolded over subsequent sessions, the tone set during the opening ceremony remained clear: Africa must take ownership of its digital future through collaboration, innovation, and proactive regulation.                                                                                                             

Solange Tanjong