Empowering Voices: Highlights from the AWiM24 Conference
The African Women in Media (AWiM) conference 2024 brought together participants comprising media professionals, academics, and advocates dedicated to promoting gender equity in the media landscape. Under the theme of Media and Sustainability, this year’s conference provided a platform for meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing women in media across Africa.
The conference was structured around three pivotal themes.
The first was on Innovative Media Business Models. As traditional media faces unprecedented challenges, discussions centered on the need for innovative business models prioritizing sustainability.
Dr. Yemisi Akinbobola, co-founder and CEO of AWiM, emphasized this point by stating, “It is not often we consider the expertise and voices of women in media when discussing media ecologies. Whilst we discuss critical industry developments, challenges, and opportunities, we must not forget the impact and voices of women. Doing so only encourages us to repeat past gaps.”

The second theme explored the Media’s Role in Development Goals. A significant focus of AWiM24 was on aligning media practices with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants engaged in dynamic discussions about how media can champion human rights, gender equality, and climate action.
Alfred Bulakali, Regional Director of Article 19 for Senegal and West Africa, highlighted the importance of this alignment by stating, “The AWIM Conference 2024 in Dakar is a testament to the importance of bringing diverse voices together to tackle the pressing media issues of our time. In today’s rapidly changing media landscape, sustainability is not just about preserving the environment but also about ensuring that media organisations are resilient, independent, and equipped to face challenges.”
The third theme addressed Embracing Emerging Technologies. With technology evolving rapidly, the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning on media was a hot topic.
The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) hosted sessions focused on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV). This initiative coincided with the release of AMWIK’s vital report detailing the growing threat of TFGBV against women in public life.
AMWIK Executive Director Queenter Mbori and Robi Koki presented findings from their research, which revealed alarming trends regarding online harassment faced by women, particularly those engaged in public discourse.
Attendees participated in group discussions to review recommendations from the research and develop actionable plans to combat TFGBV within the media sector. Key takeaways included:
- The urgent need for robust legal frameworks to protect women online.
- Establishing safe reporting mechanisms for victims of TFGBV.
- Enhancing digital literacy among women to navigate online spaces safely.
AWiM24 featured an array of engaging activities designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing. Over 60 speakers led panels and workshops on topics ranging from audience engagement strategies to combating gender-based violence in media narratives.
One of the most powerful outcomes of AWiM24 was the collective commitment to developing gender-sensitive policies within media organizations. Participants emphasized the need for increased training and support for women in leadership roles to ensure equitable representation in decision-making processes.
AWiM24 not only highlighted the challenges faced by women in media but also illuminated pathways toward sustainable solutions. By empowering women and enhancing their representation at all levels of media, we can create a future where diverse voices are heard and celebrated.
By Denis Mbau