AWiM25 Kicks Off in Addis Ababa: Women Leading the Change in African Media

The airwaves are buzzing! Today, the 9th African Women in Media (AWiM) Conference officially opened at the African Union Commission headquarters in Addis Ababa, setting the stage for powerful conversations and bold action. The AWiM Conference is the largest and most influential annual gathering focused on the intersection of women’s rights and media development across Africa. 

This year’s theme, “Beyond Commitments: Advancing Policies for Gender‑Safe Media,” is more than a slogan – it’s a rallying cry. The conference challenges Africa’s media industry to move past promises and deliver real change: creating spaces where women and young journalists are safe, respected, and empowered to lead.

From the opening session to the keynote panel, one message rang loud and clear: gender inclusion and media safety are non‑negotiable. Speakers called for enforceable policies, ethical newsroom practices, and frameworks that elevate women and youth from contributors to decision‑makers shaping the future of African media.

Technology and digital platforms also took the spotlight, with discussions on how innovation can amplify diverse voices responsibly while safeguarding vulnerable groups.

For Rise Radio and fellow broadcasters, AWiM25 isn’t just another conference – it’s a call to action. It’s an invitation to innovate boldly, lead ethically, and champion a media landscape that is inclusive, equitable, and transformative.

The microphones are on, the conversations are flowing, and the future of African media is being re‑written – by women, for everyone.

#AWiM2025 #GenderSafeMedia