Malian prime minister general Abdoulaye Maïga opened a series of panels under the theme “media education: a civic challenge in the digital age” and “informational disorder: the MDM triptych and verification tools” as well as “teaching and training in media education”.
Morocco, the guest of honour, was strongly represented at the forum that ran from June 3 to 6, 2026.
Aziz Boucetta, publishing director of Panorapost.com, noted that “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 accepted Mali’s invitation and will bring its own perspective, while hoping to forge partnerships for the continent’s development”.
Aboubacar Abdoulwahidou Maïga, director general of a journalism school and a panelist, pointed out that “the percentage of connected Malians rose from 2% in 2012 to 35% today, 80% of whom are under 35. In that segment, 60% get their news through social media”. He highlighted the insufficient digitisation of Malian media, without which the media industry cannot become profitable.
The head of government, brigade general Abdoulaye Maïga, stated that “our subregion faces complex security challenges often accompanied by an intense battle of perceptions. 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 the stability of states, social cohesion, and the resilience of societies”. He concluded by stressing the need to strengthen national and African capacities, saying “it is important to reinforce the professional ability of the media so that they can fully carry out their mission”.
