Report on the proceedings of ACME’s 5th annual Africa lecture on media and society

This publication presents the proceedings of the 5th Annual Africa Lecture on Media and Society, organised by the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) . The lecture, held in 2024, continued ACME’s tradition of providing a platform for critical reflection on the evolving relationship between media and society in Africa.

Since its inauguration in 2014, the Africa Lecture series has brought together journalists, media practitioners, academics, policymakers, students, and the wider public to debate pressing issues shaping the continent’s media landscape. Each edition features an outstanding speaker who shares insights that inform media policy, education, and practice while inspiring dialogue on the responsibilities of journalism in Africa’s development.

The 5th lecture built on this vision, engaging participants in a vibrant exchange of ideas on the role of the media in shaping African society and its narratives. This report captures the key discussions and reflections from that event.

The full lecture is also available to watch on ACME Africa’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HikoqfgEeeE