MTN Group, in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the African Editors Forum (TAEF), today announced the launch of the Pan-African Media Innovation Programme (MIP), a landmark initiative designed to empower journalists across the continent with the skills, tools, and networks essential for navigating an increasingly complex and fast-evolving media landscape.
Building on the success of the MTN Nigeria MIP launched in 2022, this expanded programme now brings its proven model to media practitioners across MTN’s African footprint.
The 12-week certified curriculum delivered independently by UJ and TAEF, combines rigorous online academic training with in-person immersion in Johannesburg.
Journalists selected for the programme will engage with critical topics such as digital transformation, media sustainability, ethics and law, entrepreneurship, and the influence of emerging technologies on news and information ecosystems.
To bridge theory and practice, the programme includes industry-led masterclasses, innovation labs, newsroom visits, and collaborative projects designed to cultivate creative problem-solving and cross-border collaboration.
This launch comes at a pivotal moment. As African societies face growing challenges from misinformation, disinformation, and increasingly fragile media business models, strengthening journalism and its institutions has become imperative.
The Pan-African MIP directly contributes to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of an informed, inclusive, and democratic continent.
“For Africa’s digital future to be truly transformative, we must invest not only in connectivity but also in the institutions that uphold trust, accountability, and public interest,” said Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer.
“With the Pan-African MIP, we are proud to support a new generation of media leaders through a collaborative effort that brings together academic excellence and editorial expertise.”
A spokesperson for the University of Johannesburg added: “This partnership reflects our commitment to socially impactful education. The programme is academically rigorous yet deeply grounded in the real-world challenges and opportunities facing today’s journalists. We are excited to contribute to shaping the future of independent media across the continent.”
Representing the African Editors Forum, a spokesperson noted: “Editors from across Africa wholeheartedly welcome this initiative. Independent media remain the bedrock of democratic societies. Through strategic partnerships like this, we can build stronger, more collaborative, and resilient media ecosystems.”
The launch event, held at the MTN Innovation Centre in Johannesburg, was attended by journalists from the MIP Alumni Association of Nigeria, symbolising the programme’s evolution from a national pilot to a Pan-African platform. The inaugural cohort of fellows for the continental edition is set to begin in 2026.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
Contact:
đź“ž +233 541 921 562
✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
