Tarek Mami, a prominent Tunisian journalist, passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the age of 71. As the founder and president of France Maghreb 2, he dedicated several decades to journalism and radio, becoming a well-known figure in the Franco-Maghrebian media landscape. His passing has sparked numerous tributes from the radio community and those who followed his career between France and the Maghreb.
Mami's journey with France Maghreb 2 began in 1987, transforming it into a hub for information, debate, and proximity, particularly for Maghrebi communities in France. With a background in journalism and law, he also advocated for independent radios. From 2009 to 2018, he served as the national secretary of the Independent Radios and Televisions Union (Sirti). His journalistic work led to interviews with numerous French and Maghrebi political personalities on France Maghreb 2.
The station's influence was evident in its role in exchanges between the two sides of the Mediterranean. Mami maintained a strong connection to Tunisia and the concerns of Tunisians abroad. The issues of the Tunisian community in France, relations between the two countries, and Maghrebi current events frequently featured in his work. His attachment to his homeland was reflected in his reporting and will be remembered in his funeral.
According to the obituary announced by his family, a gathering will take place on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at Jean Jaurès Hospital in Paris, followed by a funeral prayer at the Chevilly-Larue mosque after the Dohr prayer. Mami's body will then be repatriated to Djerba Island, Tunisia, for burial. This final act underscores the connection he maintained with Tunisia despite spending much of his professional life in France.
Mami's career is a testament to an era when radio was a vital means of information, dialogue, and connection to countries of origin for Maghrebi communities in France. The media landscape has since evolved with social media and digital platforms changing media consumption habits. Pioneering radios like France Maghreb 2 have left a lasting impact on their audiences.
Tarek Mami's legacy is intertwined with the history of Franco-Maghrebian media. His contributions to maintaining a media space between France and the Maghreb will be remembered. The impact of his work and his commitment to his roots will continue to resonate with audiences and colleagues alike.
Kapitalis extends its sincerest condolences to Mami's family, close ones, collaborators, and the France Maghreb 2 team. May the deceased rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in this difficult time.
Key points
- Tarek Mami, founder of France Maghreb 2, passes away at 71.
- Mami maintained a strong connection to Tunisia throughout his career.
- His legacy in Franco-Maghrebian media continues to impact audiences.
