

20 August 2024, 9:02 am
By Mike Okwang Ogule
The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked a global debate, particularly within professional sectors. AI’s influence is felt everywhere, with mixed reactions from professionals. While some welcome AI for its ability to streamline work, others fear it might replace them. The media industry is no exception to these concerns.
In response, the United States Agency for Global Media (USAGM) and Voice of America (VOA) organised a three-day training session titled “Artificial Intelligence in Journalism: What’s Working in Africa and Beyond.” Held from 15th to 17th August 2024 at Mosa Courts Hotel in Kampala, the training focused on the impact of AI on the media, particularly in Africa.
Fred Afune and Vincent Kimani, leading media professionals from Royal Media Services in Kenya, facilitated the training. Drawing on their experiences at Royal Media and their recent visits to Mango TV and CGTN in China, they provided an in-depth insight into how AI is transforming journalism.
Mr Afune highlighted both the benefits of AI, such as automated content creation and audience engagement, and the ethical challenges it poses, urging a balanced approach that preserves the core values of journalism.
Jimmy Okello, Northern Uganda Executive Representative at the National Association of Broadcasters Uganda, encouraged journalists to actively embrace AI. He emphasised that AI could significantly enhance productivity and storytelling, helping media professionals remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
Peter Byengoma, USAGM VOA Regional Representative for Eastern & Southern Africa, urged participants to become AI ambassadors within their organisations. He encouraged them to share the knowledge they had gained with their colleagues, ensuring that the benefits of AI are widely understood and utilised across the media landscape.
The training concluded with participants from over 10 radio and TV stations across Uganda feeling better equipped to navigate the evolving role of AI in journalism. The discussions underscored the importance of adaptation and collaboration in addressing the challenges and opportunities that AI presents to the media industry. As AI continues to reshape journalism, such conversations are vital to ensuring that the industry thrives and remains a crucial pillar of society.