African Union Media Fellows visit IDOS

Around 20 journalists from 18 African countries explored IDOS’ work and exchanged views on media in development cooperation.

On 6 July, IDOS welcomed journalists and content creators from the African Union Media Fellowship Programme (AUMF) to its offices in Bonn. The visit created space for dialogue on research, policy advice, training and science communication.

Tanja Vogel, Head of Communications, welcomed the delegation. She highlighted the advantages of IDOS‘ location in Bonn’s UN City, where numerous international organisations foster exchange and cooperation. She also underlined the Institute’s strong links with universities and research institutes in Germany and around the world. Together with Press Officer Dr Wendpanga Eric Segueda, she introduced IDOS and its work. They presented the Institute’s development from its founding to today’s broad portfolio of research, policy advice, training and activities in science communication.

Dr Hangwei Li, IDOS researcher and former journalist, then shared insights into her work on Africa. She spoke about her research on African media and journalistic agency. Drawing on her experience in both journalism and academia, she sparked a lively discussion with the Fellows.

The exchange reflected many of the Fellowship’s own objectives. The African Union Media Fellowship strengthens ethical journalism, encourages collaboration across borders and supports African media professionals in challenging dominant narratives. The programme brings together 60 journalists and content creators from across Africa working in print, broadcast, and digital media. As a flagship initiative of the African Union Information and Communication Directorate, the programme supports high-quality journalism, promotes cross-border storytelling, and contributes to the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 through six thematic tracks. The current cohort also includes a dedicated Health Track, developed in cooperation with Africa CDC to strengthen public health reporting across the continent.