In early January 2023, Beki Ben Amer, Secretary-General of the international organization ANA (Love Our Africa) and the Alliance of African Journalists and Human Rights Defenders, travelled to Khartoum, Sudan, for a working visit focused on media cooperation.
The trip followed an official invitation from the Centre for Studies and Research on the Horn of Africa. Its purpose was to strengthen cooperation between media professionals and civil society to support peace, dialogue and stability.
During the visit, the centre hosted a programme of intellectual discussions, academic roundtables and training sessions for Sudanese media professionals. These activities provided an opportunity to examine the political and social challenges facing Sudan and the wider region. They also explored how journalism could encourage dialogue and help bring different communities closer together.
The main event took place at Sharjah Hall at the University of Khartoum. The workshop, entitled “The Role of the Media in Strengthening Political Stability in Sudan,” brought together academics, researchers, opinion leaders and content creators. Beki Ben Amer contributed to discussions on the connection between responsible journalism and social harmony. He stressed that the media can do more than report daily events, particularly during periods of political transition.
Furthermore, the discussions addressed the harmful effects of rumours, misinformation, hate speech and social polarization. Such practices can weaken public trust and deepen divisions between communities. Participants therefore highlighted the importance of accurate reporting, balanced coverage and responsible communication in promoting mutual understanding.
Alongside the workshop, Ben Amer delivered advanced training in strategic communication for Sudanese journalists and media professionals. The sessions examined the concept of inclusive media and its application in modern journalism. Participants explored techniques for producing analytical content that helps audiences understand complex issues rather than relying only on immediate news coverage.
The training also emphasized professional ethics, including fact-checking, neutrality and responsibility. Tolerance and peaceful coexistence were presented as important values that journalists can promote through their reporting. These principles can help create a more constructive public debate and encourage communication across social divides.
Finally, the visit highlighted the importance of building lasting cooperation between the Alliance of African Journalists and Human Rights Defenders and the Centre for Studies and Research on the Horn of Africa. The two organizations identified professional networking and the exchange of African experiences as important areas for future collaboration. Through these efforts, they seek to encourage responsible journalism, strengthen the rule of law and support peace and stability in Sudan and the wider Horn of Africa.
