The Association of Radios and Televisions of the Indian Ocean (ARTOI) has concluded its general assembly in Moroni, Comoros, to discuss the audiovisual coverage of the 2027 Indian Ocean Island Games. The assembly, which took place on October 8, was attended by media representatives from various countries, including Seychelles, Mayotte, and Réunion. They visited several sites that will host the competitions, including the Olympic pool in Mitsudje and the Maluzini Omnisport Stadium.
The media delegation, led by ARTOI President Valérie Filain, met with Comoros' Minister of Telecommunications, Omouri Mmadi Hassani, to discuss connectivity, infrastructure, and technical means necessary for broadcasting the Games. They also met with Minister of Information Fatima Ahamada to discuss audiovisual reinforcement and coordination of communication around major events. The meetings aimed to provide a better understanding of the situation and address challenges that need to be overcome.
According to Valérie Filain, the visits and meetings have provided a clearer picture of the situation, and she is confident that the Games will take place as scheduled. However, she acknowledged that there are still difficulties to be addressed, particularly in terms of audiovisual equipment and transmission means. The ceremony of opening is scheduled for August 10, 2027, leaving about 10 months to set up the audiovisual system.
Nathalie Rose, Deputy Director-General of Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC), described the visit as "very constructive" and expressed her satisfaction with the welcome and meetings organized with event officials. She suggested that her delegation would like to return to Comoros before the Games to follow up on preparations and offered SBC's support for the event's success.
Toufaili Andjilani, Director-General of Mayotte La Première, also expressed his satisfaction with the visit and emphasized the importance of accompanying Comoros' television in preparing for the audiovisual coverage. He confirmed that Mayotte La Première will be present at the 2027 Games. Meanwhile, Hablani Assoumani, Director-General of ORTC, highlighted the importance of exchanges with regional media and called for strengthened collaboration between Indian Ocean media.
An initial allocation of sports coverage was presented, with SBC responsible for boxing, Mayotte La Première covering basketball and gymnastic events, Mauritian media covering volleyball, and Réunion La Première handling swimming. ORTC will be responsible for football and other disciplines. The allocation will be further refined, particularly regarding teams, equipment, and transmission.
The ARTOI general assembly has laid the groundwork for the audiovisual coverage of the 2027 Games. According to Valérie Filain, the focus is on being ready when the Games open on August 10, 2027. The media representatives have expressed their confidence in the successful organization of the event, despite some challenges that remain to be addressed.
Key points
- Media representatives visit Comoros to assess preparations for 2027 Indian Ocean Island Games
- ARTOI concludes general assembly to discuss audiovisual coverage of the Games
- Comoros aims to successfully host the 2027 Indian Ocean Island Games, with support from regional media partners