A Bold Leap from Nigeria to the Continent
When MTN Group first launched the Media Innovation Programme (MIP) in Nigeria, it was hailed as a forward-thinking initiative bridging the gap between technology and journalism. Three years later, the programme has taken a transformative leap. On 12 September 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa, MTN announced that MIP has now evolved into a Pan-African fellowship one designed to equip journalists across the continent with the tools, networks, and perspectives required in today’s digital-first world.
Anchored by the University of Johannesburg (UJ) as the academic partner and backed by the African Editors Forum (TAEF), this new edition reflects MTN’s vision of creating a modern, connected Africa where information flows with credibility and trust.
Why Journalism Matters More Than Ever
At the heart of the launch was a sobering reality: news no longer waits. Nompilo Morafo, Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer at MTN, emphasized the stakes:
“Information today flows instantly, often without filters. People no longer wait for a press release they go online, where disinformation is as prevalent as credible reporting. Journalism is more than a profession; it is a calling. This programme ensures the next generation of African journalists can lead with integrity, accuracy and trust.”
Her words underscore the urgency. As Africa embraces digitization, journalists remain the custodians of truth. Without trusted storytellers, misinformation threatens to dominate the narrative.
Building a Future-Ready Media Landscape
The fellowship will run for 12 weeks and blends academic modules, industry immersion, innovation labs, and mentorship. Beyond classroom learning, fellows will benefit from guest lectures by MTN executives and industry leaders, as well as study tours and career opportunities.
Professor Prinola Govenden, Associate Professor in Communication and Media at UJ, highlighted the challenges facing Africa’s news ecosystem:
“Our media landscape is being reshaped by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, social media and the dominance of multinational tech platforms. Journalists cannot afford to be left behind. This Pan-African curriculum will be grounded in African case studies, Afrocentric perspectives, and practical industry exposure.”
By rooting the programme in African realities rather than imported frameworks, the fellowship empowers participants to shape narratives that reflect the continent’s dynamism.
Investing in Young Storytellers
Beyond skills, MTN and UJ are also investing in the next generation. As part of the university’s 20th anniversary, bursaries and employment support will be extended to young people, particularly first-generation graduates. This move signals a long-term commitment: not just training journalists, but ensuring they have pathways into sustainable careers.
Reframing Africa’s Global Narrative
Churchill Otieno, President of the African Editors Forum, framed the fellowship as more than a training programme it is an act of reclamation:
“Too often, Africa’s story is told through external lenses, reducing our achievements to crises or aid. This initiative is about reclaiming our agency. Journalism must be both a mirror and a map reflecting our resilience and creativity while guiding us to unity and prosperity.”
By giving African journalists the skills to own their stories, MTN is not only investing in the media but also contributing to how the world perceives Africa.
A Defining Moment for African Journalism
The MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme arrives at a defining moment. With technology reshaping how stories are told, this fellowship offers the continent’s journalists more than training it gives them power. Power to challenge misinformation, to amplify authentic voices, and to lead with courage and credibility.
For MTN, it is another expression of its mission: enabling a modern connected life for every African. For journalism, it is a renewal of purpose. For Africa, it is a reminder that its stories deserve to be told by its own people truthfully, boldly, and without compromise.
