Dar es Salaam, August 28, 2024, The 14th East African Communication Association (EACA) Conference, hosted by the University of Dar es Salaam’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication (SJMC), commenced on Wednesday, bringing together around 300 scholars, researchers, practitioners, and students from over 24 countries.
The conference, running from August 28th to 30th, 2024, is centered on the theme: ‘Africa and the Global Dialogue on Media and Communication.’
This year’s theme highlights the transformative impact of media and communication globally, with particular emphasis on emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, gender dynamics, climate change, and the growing prominence of Kiswahili in media.
In her opening address, Prof. Margaret Jjuuko, President of the EACA, called on African media professionals to leverage their influence in shaping the global media landscape. She underscored the shift from traditional to digital platforms, stressing the increasing significance of African voices in this transition.
“In this new, globally interconnected world, the global dialogue on media and communication is more important than ever,” Prof. Jjuuko stated. “From traditional to digital platforms, African voices are resonating louder than ever.”
Dr. Mona Mwakalinga, Dean of the SJMC, reflected on the conference’s significant impact over the past thirteen years. She urged attendees to use the conference as a platform for sharing their perspectives and engaging in meaningful dialogue.
“As we know, collaboration is crucial. We live in a world where discussing, sharing ideas, and working together is key to solving developmental issues,” Dr. Mwakalinga said. “It is time to ensure that we speak from our own perspectives, rather than having others speak for us. This conference is our opportunity to raise our issues and amplify them for the world to hear, showing that we are an integral part of the global conversation.”
Prof. Daniel Mushi, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology responsible for Higher Education in Tanzania, spoke on behalf of Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, former President of Tanzania and Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam.
He emphasized the need for collective action to address media challenges, highlighting the growing impact of social media and the necessity of collaborative solutions to combat misinformation and disinformation. He also noted the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance various sectors, including innovation, child protection, marketing, and investigative journalism.
“We need to bring our ideas together to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing today’s dynamic media landscape,” Prof. Mushi stated.
Over the remaining two days, the EACA Conference will continue to foster dynamic and inclusive dialogue among scholars, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and regulators from East Africa and beyond. Discussions will focus on the challenges and opportunities in media and communication, particularly within the East African context, and will encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and the exchange of innovative ideas.
Founded in 2011, the EACA has provided a platform for journalism, media, and communication scholars in East Africa to share research and insights on the regional media landscape. The association collaborates with experts globally, including those from Germany, South Africa, West Africa, Norway, and the United States, and has hosted annual conferences in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda since its inception.
