By Sekaggya Seka Moses
The 48th Course for Anglophone African Journalists concluded in Cairo with a heartfelt address by Wabusimba Amiri of Uganda, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues from Liberia, Somalia, Mozambique, and Tanzania.
His speech, rich in reflection and gratitude, captured the spirit of unity and transformation that defined the three-week training organized by Egypt’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Standing before diplomats, media executives, and journalists, Amiri described the experience as “a journey of rediscovering African solidarity through professional media advancement.” He commended the SCMR for blending rigorous professional development with meaningful intercultural exchange.
“This program has given us not only technical knowledge but transformational knowledge that will strengthen responsible journalism and ethical communication across Africa,” he said, drawing warm applause.
In a touching moment, Amiri paid tribute to fellow Ugandan participant Grace Lekuru, who lost her sister, the late Teddy Apili, a journalist with UBC, during the course.
“Her pain became my pain,” he said. “This training reminded us that beyond media, we are bound by humanity.” His words moved the hall to silence.
Amiri also celebrated Egypt’s cultural and historical heritage. “Egypt has taught us that progress is not accidental it is intentional, built on vision, discipline, and respect for heritage,” he noted, recalling visits to the Pyramids, the Nile, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria, which he described as “not just history, but inspiration.”
He urged journalists to embrace constructive journalism and use artificial intelligence responsibly, reminding them that “AI should empower truth, not distort it.”
His remarks reflected SCMR’s broader vision of shaping African media professionals who champion integrity and innovation in the digital era.
During the training, Amiri and Tanzanian colleague Njwaba Mwaijibe paid a courtesy visit to the Ugandan Embassy in Cairo, where they were received by Lt. Col. Charles Agina, Deputy Head of Mission.
The Ambassador later hosted them for dinner, commending Amiri’s dedication and curiosity. “This younger brother of mine, Amiri, continues to make us proud,” he said.
“He carries Uganda’s spirit wherever he goes curious, resilient, and open-minded. Such examples inspire other young Africans to seek knowledge beyond borders.”
The Ambassador reflected on generational change, likening evolving naming traditions to shifting identities, and encouraged journalists to carry faith and focus into their storytelling a reminder that journalism must always inspire reflection and responsibility.
At the graduation, Ambassador Sayed El-Salahi, Deputy Assistant to Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs for Expatriates, Training, and Technical Cooperation, reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening African cooperation through training and capacity building.
He noted that Egypt’s partnership with African nations dates back to 1977 and continues to promote shared development and mutual understanding.
“You are not just graduates of a course; you are ambassadors for Egypt in your respective countries,” he told participants. Counselor Reem Hindi, a member of the SCMR’s Technical Secretariat, underscored the value of continued engagement among alumni, stressing that the program was not merely academic but a platform for building networks that sustain African unity through media collaboration.
As the event concluded, participants shared a sense of gratitude and renewed purpose. For Amiri, the training marked another milestone in advancing African voices and transforming journalism into a tool for peace and development.
“Journalism, when practiced with integrity, is diplomacy in action,” he said. “It connects nations, fosters understanding, and strengthens the fabric of peace.”
Amiri’s closing words captured the spirit of the course: “The true power of journalism lies not in the speed of a story, but in its ability to nurture understanding and inspire change.”
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