[Abuja, November 7th, 2023]
The Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) is set to host its maiden edition of the Media and Development Conference (#MDC23) at the Abuja Continental Hotel from November 13 to 15.
At least 250 delegates, including journalists, media experts, technologists, academics, and policymakers drawn from within and outside Nigeria are expected for the in-person event. Hundreds of other participants are expected to join virtually.
The conference, themed “Bridging Democracy, Development, Innovation, and Media Sustainability”, received over 1,000 applications for attendance.
The Media and Development Conference (#MDC23) brings together experts and stakeholders from the fields of media, development, civil society, and digital innovation.
This event serves as a platform for fostering discussions on emerging developmental challenges and the convergence of media and innovation in West Africa. The conference will also delve into sustainable development strategies and emphasise the essential role of media in strengthening democracy and advancing sustainability.
The media environment in West Africa faces a multitude of urgent challenges, including government censorship, financial constraints, and inadequate legal protections. These pressing issues require immediate attention and innovative solutions. CJID, through this conference, is committed to confronting these issues head-on and presenting innovative, actionable solutions.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy and Co-Founder of Co-Creation Hub (CCHub), will deliver the keynote address at MDC23.
His address titled “Accelerating Collective Prosperity through Technical Efficiency: The Roles of Media and Civil Society in Implementing Nigeria’s Strategic Plan” will delve into the multifaceted dimensions of how emerging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital disruption offer both opportunities and challenges for Africa’s future development, setting the stage for an engaging and insightful conference.
Other panel discussions focus on newsroom sustainability, Africa’s digital economy, and climate justice, among others.
The conference will also feature a legislative advocacy dialogue to explore critical issues around journalists’ safety and press freedom, a media development hackathon aimed at supporting and fostering creative solutions for issues that impact the media landscape in Africa and the 2023 Kwame Karikari Fellowship Dinner to honour journalists who have successfully completed the 2023 edition of DUBAWA fellowship.
According to Mr Akintunde Babatunde, the Program Director at the CJID, “The primary objective of the conference is to create a robust platform for over two hundred delegates, comprising media professionals, academics, representatives from donor agencies, and policymakers, to engage in a comprehensive dialogue on the state of media and democracy in West Africa.”
About the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID):
The CJID is a leading organisation committed to advancing journalism, innovation, and development in the ever-evolving media landscape. By fostering collaboration and dialogue among diverse stakeholders, the CJID plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of journalism and its impact on inclusive and sustainable development.