02 Sep 2024

Botswana, through the Department of Broadcasting Services (DBS), is hosting the 15^th annual general assembly of the African Union of Broadcasting (AUB) in Gaborone until  September 6. 

A press release from the Office of the President says the AUB general assembly, themed: The future of African media in the face of challenges of new technologies and climate change, is a pivotal gathering of African media.

The press release says the five-day general assembly, which represents a vital forum for members to share insights, strategise and collectively define the future of broadcasting in Africa, is expected to convene 45 African countries. Other countries to attend are from Europe, North America, United States of America, Middle East, Asia Pacific, including China and Russia.

“International organisations who are considered key stakeholders from across the African broadcast media landscape will also attend to share and tackle the pressing challenges and explore new opportunities for content creation on the continent,” states the release.

Participants, as per the release, will engage in in-depth discussions regarding the state of content in the media industry, identifying critical threats and avenues for growth.

This year’s high-level meeting, the press release says aims to focus on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in broadcasting and the ongoing fight against change underscores the urgent need for innovation and adaptability in the media sector.

The African Union of Broadcasting was established in 2006 during the final session of the general assembly of the Union of National Radio and Television of Africa (URTNA) in Abuja, Nigeria.

As a professional body composed of radio and television organisations from across African states, AUB is dedicated to fostering the advancement of broadcasting in Africa. Since AUB’s inception, Botswana has been a member, in good standing, currently holding a seat on the executive council. Ends