A delegation from Niger, led by the Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communication and New Information Technologies, is participating in the 15th edition of the African Universities of Communication in Ouagadougou (UACO). The event, which began on October 7, 2026, in the Burkinabé capital, brings together communication stakeholders to discuss pressing issues in the field. The Niger delegation includes public media officials and other key players.

The President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, officially opened the event, emphasizing the need for Africans to control the continent's information space. He stressed that sovereignty must also be communicative, enabling Africa to shape its narrative and representation. Traoré's speech, presented by Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, urged communication professionals to verify and contextualize information while enhancing their digital skills and critical thinking.

The 15th UACO edition, scheduled to end on October 9, 2026, at the University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, focuses on the theme "In a context of communication war, what attitudes and aptitudes for information and communication actors in Africa?" The event aims to equip a new generation of professionals with the skills to understand contemporary challenges, master technologies, and responsibly represent African populations.

This year's edition features 35 selected communications and two major initiatives: the Forum of media actors from the Sahel States Confederation (AES) and the first edition of the "Golden Lovers" competition. The competition seeks to recognize and reward outstanding communication professionals. According to Communication Minister Gilbert Ouédraogo, information has become a strategic resource that influences perceptions, behaviors, and opinions.

Minister Ouédraogo emphasized the importance of optimizing practices, orienting public policies, and developing communication strategies. He encouraged participants to engage in meaningful discussions that would contribute to the growth of their respective countries. The UACO event provides a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in communication.

The Niger delegation's participation in the 15th UACO edition demonstrates the country's commitment to enhancing its communication sector. By engaging with other African nations and experts, Niger aims to strengthen its capacities and stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in communication. The event offers valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

As the UACO 2026 edition comes to a close, participants are expected to carry away new insights, ideas, and strategies to implement in their respective countries. The event's outcomes will likely contribute to the development of more effective communication policies and practices across Africa, ultimately enhancing the continent's communication landscape.

Key points

  • Niger's delegation participates in 15th UACO edition in Ouagadougou, focusing on communication challenges and opportunities in Africa.
  • President Ibrahim Traoré emphasizes the need for Africans to control the continent's information space and develop communicative sovereignty.
  • The event features 35 communications, a forum for Sahel States media actors, and a competition to recognize outstanding communication professionals.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.