Bamako: The inaugural Pan-African Media Forum (FOPAME) commenced in Bamako with a resounding call from Malian Prime Minister, Major General Abdoulaye Maga, emphasizing the necessity for "informational sovereignty" in Africa. This initiative, according to the Prime Minister, is vital to counter the manipulation and narrative warfare that the continent faces.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the four-day forum, themed "Uniting voices, strengthening ties between African media," has attracted media professionals from approximately twenty African countries, with Morocco as the guest of honor. During the event's opening, Major General Maga highlighted the strategic importance of information in today's digitally and technologically advanced era.

The Malian Prime Minister underscored the significance of controlling both national and continental narratives, viewing it not merely as a communication issue but as a major strategic concern and a fundamental pillar of state sovereignty and stability. He pointed out the intricate security challenges faced by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and the intense perception battles accompanying them.

In response to these challenges, Major General Maga called for a collective awakening to a media-driven and digital Pan-Africanism, stressing that controlling Africa's narrative would elevate its global standing.

Echoing the Prime Minister's sentiments, Bandiougou Dant©, president of the Maison de la Presse du Mali and the forum's organizer, criticized the externally dictated representation of Africa. He lamented the amplification of Africa's crises and the minimization of its successes, highlighting the dual confrontation of security and information warfare in the Sahel.

Salif Sanogo, president of the FOPAME 2026 organizing committee, addressed the evolving role of journalists amid technological advancements. He urged for unity among pan-African media to combat disinformation and manipulation, emphasizing the necessity of a collective approach to counter external influences.

The forum's inaugural conference, led by experienced Senegalese journalist Martin Faye, explored the role of African media in the digital age. Mr. Faye advocated for the integration of the African communication space through technological innovation, strengthened investigative journalism, and a reclamation of narrative sovereignty.

Throughout the forum, participants will engage in panels and roundtables focused on conflict coverage, digital transformation, peacebuilding, and the media's role in reconciliation processes across Africa.