The launch marked the expansion of a proven national initiative in Nigeria into a continent-wide platform aimed at strengthening the future of African journalism.
In September 2025, MTN Group, in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the African Editors Forum (TAEF), launched the MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme (MIP) at MTN Group Headquarters in Johannesburg. The launch marked the expansion of a proven national initiative in Nigeria into a continent-wide platform aimed at strengthening the future of African journalism.
Following this announcement and subsequent programme preparation, applications are now invited for the 2026 MTN Pan-African MIP cohort. Applications close on 30 April 2026.
The MTN Pan-African MIP is a 12-week certified learning journey delivered over 6 months, combining online academic modules with an in-person immersion in Johannesburg. The programme is designed to address the practical and strategic realities facing contemporary journalism, including digital transformation, media sustainability, ethics and law, innovation in newsroom practice, and the impact of platforms and emerging technologies on the information ecosystem.
Fellows will also participate in newsroom immersion, industry masterclasses, study visits, and structured peer engagement that connects academic learning with real-world application.
Beyond formal learning, the programme is intended to build a Pan-African community of practice, enabling sustained collaboration, professional exchange, and cross-border learning among journalists, editors, and media leaders across the continent.
Applications are open to mid- to senior-level journalists, editors and media practitioners from MTN markets. Applicants should demonstrate strong professional experience, a commitment to ethical journalism, and an interest in innovation and cross-border engagement. For eligibility criteria and application guidance, please visit here.
Following the close of applications, candidates will be reviewed and shortlisted independently by UJ and TAEF based on professional merit, potential impact, and their commitment to the evolution of African media.
Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, says a vibrant, resilient and innovative media ecosystem is essential for Africa’s progress.
“Through the MTN Pan-African Media Innovation Programme, working with UJ and TAEF, we are investing in the future of journalism by equipping media professionals with the skills, networks and tools they need to navigate a rapidly changing information landscape. This initiative reinforces MTN’s commitment to supporting strong, ethical and sustainable media across our markets, and to fostering the voices that shape our continent’s stories.”
– Nompilo Morafo, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, MTN Group
Professor Sifiso Mnisi, UJ’s Director for Centre for Data and Digital Communications, said the future of African journalism depends on the continuous development of critical thinking, ethical leadership and innovative newsroom practice.
“Our partnership with MTN and TAEF allows us to equip media professionals with the academic grounding and practical exposure needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving information environment. We are proud to contribute to a programme that strengthens media excellence across the continent.”
– Professor Sifiso Mnisi, Director for Centre for Data and Digital Communications, UJ
“For Africa to deepen democracy and social cohesion, we need newsrooms that are strong, independent and capable of adapting to fast‑changing media dynamics. The Pan-African Media Innovation Programme provides a vital platform for journalists and editors to sharpen their skills, collaborate across borders, and innovate in the interests of the public.”
– Churchill Otieno, President, TAEF
Source : www. techafricanews.com
