Fesmedia Africa’s conference, which will focus on issues related to digital rights, access to information, freedom of expression, press freedom, media sustainability and human rights, is set to commence today at the Country Club Resorts in Namibia. 

The conference aims to provide a platform for discussions and exchange of ideas among media professionals, activists, policymakers and stakeholders from across the African continent.

It will cover a range of themes and topics, including rethinking access to information and human rights in the digital age; an open and inclusive internet for Africa; intersectional issues and holistic approaches to ATI, FOE and digital rights; surveillance, capitalism, technology and the right to privacy in Africa; shrinking civic spaces – physically and online, as well as strengthening investigative journalism in Africa.

A variety of formats, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, fishbowl discussions and interactive focus groups, will be employed at the conference. 

It will provide an opportunity for participants to network, build relationships, strengthen their understanding of the issues facing the region and jointly look for solutions to the challenges and share ideas on how best to make use of opportunities.   

Fesmedia Africa encourages media practitioners, human rights defenders, information and communication rights advocates, public officials, academics, independent researchers and the general public to participate via live streaming and social media platforms.