Mali’s prime minister, Abdoulaye Maïga, attended the opening ceremony of panels covering themes such as “Media literacy: a citizen issue in the digital age,” “Information disorder: the MDM trio and verification tools,” and “Teaching and training in media literacy.”
Morocco, the guest of honour, was strongly represented at the forum, which took place from 3 to 6 June 2026.
Aziz Boucetta, publishing director of Panorapost.com, stated: “The pan-African family gathers in Mali to discuss Africa’s problems, which are perfectly surmountable once we become aware of them.” He added that “Morocco responded to Mali’s invitation and will bring its perspective, hoping to forge partnerships for the development of the African continent.”
Aboubacar Abdoulwahidou Maïga, director general of the journalism school and a panelist, noted: “The rate of connected Malians has risen from 2% in 2012 to 35% today, with 80% of those being young people under 35. Among this segment, 60% get their information through social media.”
Abdoulwahidou Maïga highlighted the insufficient digitalisation of Mali’s media, without which the media industry cannot be profitable.
Brigadier General Abdoulaye Maïga, the head of government, said: “Our subregion faces complex security challenges that often involve an intense battle of perception. Contemporary conflicts are no longer fought only on the military ground but also on the digital and informational media field. In this context, the journalist becomes a strategic actor for state stability, social cohesion, and societal resilience.”
He concluded by stressing the need to strengthen national and African capacities: “It is important to bolster the professional capability of the media so they can fully accomplish their mission.”