Kenya has been named a leading candidate, alongside Ethiopia, to host the 5th Africa Media Convention in 2026.
The official bidding will occur in Morocco during this year’s convention, which fosters in-depth discussions on critical issues shaping Africa’s media landscape.
Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo reaffirmed the government’s robust support for the bid and stressed the importance of coordinated efforts between media and government to strengthen Kenya’s prospects.
He revealed that the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communication and The Digital Economy will lead the Kenyan delegation to bolster the bid’s credibility.
“Kenya adopts a structured approach to bidding for international forums. The Ministry will lead the effort, with media associations, including the Kenya Editors Guild (KEG), Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), driving the media component,” Omwoyo stated during a strategic planning session at the Council on Monday, May 12, 2025.
How Kenya plans to secure Africa Media Convention hosting rights
Omwoyo proposed establishing a quasi-secretariat, based at the Council, to act as the central hub for coordination and communication throughout the bidding process.
He emphasised the need for a strong communication strategy to raise awareness and visibility for Kenya’s bid, including hosting an activation event in Morocco.
He also urged the team to compile a comprehensive document highlighting Kenya’s media landscape, encompassing its institutions, training facilities, and production capabilities.
On his part, KUJ Secretary General Eric Oduor highlighted the importance of a technically robust and compelling presentation to support the bid.
He also suggested early discussions on the theme for the 2026 convention.
Hosting the Africa Media Convention would bring strategic advantages to Kenya, including boosting tourism and showcasing the country’s dynamic media sector, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies.
The planning meeting convened leaders from key media associations—KUJ, KEG, and AMWIK—as well as representatives from the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).
