Thanks to you, 2025 marks a turning point where missionary vitality and logistics have come together to serve the Gospel. Your support has enabled us to act on two fronts: constant technical monitoring and a strategic presence in the field.
From our base, the connection has never been broken. With over 2,000 messages and 1,000 calls, we have supported more than 50 contacts. Troubleshooting and real-time advice have supported stations from Burkina Faso to the far reaches of the DRC. Your help transforms this technical support into a lifeline for these isolated radio stations, ensuring that the voice of the Gospel is not silenced due to lack of maintenance.
On the ground, the impact is tangible. Our missions have taken us from the Kigali conference (180 key players) to the realities of Congo and Niger, which have come to Rwanda. A highlight of December was our presence in Lomé. In addition to the editorial seminar and six visits to radio stations, the arrival of a container of audio equipment represents a major step forward. This technical treasure, donated by a major French commercial radio station, will equip around 20 radio stations.
Caption: From left to right: Christian Gaspoz of Médias Ébène, Sabine Mussard of Fréquence Oasis La Réunion, Emmanuel Ziehli and Denis Steffen of Médias Ébène at the Kigali seminar in November 2025.
The fruits of this collaboration are tangible: 50 technicians trained in maintenance and 200 producers equipped to better proclaim the Word. We have also supported the emergence of new projects, from Guinea to Chad, responding to the call from areas still in "radio silence." Beyond the numbers, life is springing forth: in Bukavu, the rehabilitated radio station is resuming its mission; in the Central African Republic, a construction site manager found faith while listening to Radio Sinai.
Every bolt tightened is a spiritual victory shared with you. Thank you for enabling millions of souls to hear the Good News.
It was in Kigali, Rwanda, that Médias Ebène participated last October in the continental seminar "Africa by Radio" (AbR), the English-speaking equivalent of the Forum des médias chrétiens d'Afrique francophone (FOMECAF), launched by our association in 2019. We played a central role in organizing the event, inviting key players, and moderating panels.
The choice of Rwanda, Congo's eastern neighbor, made it possible to welcome participants from Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. These provinces are violently shaken by armed rebel groups (M23, ADF), where insecurity and radicalism threaten peace and democratic expression. The consequences are severe: mass displacement and human rights violations.
Yet, amid all this turmoil, Christian radio stations continue to serve as beacons of hope and resilience. Three Congolese radio stations embody this light and were present in Kigali: Radio Télé Réconciliation from Nyankunde (with Jean-Luc Simbilyabo), Radio Sola Deo Gloria from Bunyakiri (with Floribert Kikwabantu), and Radio Ebène from Bukavu Chaï (with Blaise Wemba).
Jean-Luc Simbilyabo, from Ituri, had already been awarded the François Sergy Prize at FOMECAF 2020 in Lomé for his “integral radio” project. More recently, his station has managed to survive by striking deals with armed groups. His account is poignant: he welcomed men onto the radio knowing that they had committed murders that very morning.
As the year draws to a close, the association would like to pay tribute to these true heroes, who embody the values of the Kingdom of God (justice, peace, faith, devotion). Their commitment is inspiring, as their waves carry a message of light where darkness reigns.
In Kigali, we also had the joy of meeting up again with friends from Niger and Mali, where the situation remains just as precarious. To all these peacemakers and messengers of good news, we offer our gratitude and our prayers.
https://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/station-Radio-Tele-Evangile-Reconciliation-6.jpeg7561008Emmanuel Ziehlihttps://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/logo-medias-ebene-web-202411-300x138.pngEmmanuel ZiehliJanuary 7, 2026, 3:27:30 PMApril 2, 2026, 3:54:01 PMRadio, the last bastion of freedom and hope
Abidjan, Ivory Coast – The religious media landscape in French-speaking Africa is set to experience a highlight at the end of January 2026. The Forum des Médias Chrétiens d’Afrique Francophone (FOMECAF) will hold its national seminar in Abidjan, with the active support of Médias Ébène. After a year dedicated to technical equipment in 2025, the Swiss organization is kicking off 2026 with a focus on skills development and strengthening ties.
A strategic meeting is taking shape at the CEFCA in Abidjan. From January 28 to 30, 2026, decision-makers and information professionals will gather to discuss a central theme: "Resilience and responsibility: the strategic role of Christian media in French-speaking Africa in the fight against radicalism, the promotion of peace, and the strengthening of social cohesion."
From equipment to training: the turning point of 2026
For Médias Ébène, this seminar marks a significant evolution in its work on the continent. After devoting 2025 to numerous technical interventions—equipment, repair, and installation of radios—the organization is starting the new year by focusing on human capital.
The objective is clear: to strengthen the capacities of local actors and forge strong links between the various stations. "Médias Ebène welcomes the FOMECAF initiative and is delighted that it will have a significant impact on Ivorian religious media," said the organization, confirming its desire to participate in the development of a credible and responsible press.
International expertise at the service of workshops
To fulfill this commitment, Médias Ébène is sending a delegation of three seasoned experts to Abidjan to lead technical workshops in the afternoon, complementing the morning plenary sessions reserved for decision-makers. These sessions will focus on the essential pillars of modern media:
Denis Steffen will speak on content management, programming, and radio administration.
Andrea Luzi will contribute his expertise in studio technologies and sound quality optimization.
Emmanuel Ziehli will address contemporary challenges: marketing, the use of artificial intelligence, and the search for funding.
A dual challenge: strategic and operational
The seminar, organized by FOMECAF, aims to address two distinct needs. The mornings will be devoted to decision-makers (developers, directors, marketing managers) to address macro-strategic issues: viable economic models, regulation, and challenges facing the sector.
In the afternoons, it's time to get down to business. Professionals (journalists, presenters, technicians) will benefit from practical workshops to hone their skills. This dual approach aims to improve the editorial, technical, and managerial quality of media outlets.
Through this event, FOMECAF and Médias Ébène reaffirm their shared mission: to structure and connect Christian media outlets so that they remain vectors of social stability, peace, and "living together" in French-speaking Africa.
It is with deep sadness that we learn, at the start of this new year, of the passing of our dear friend and brother, Albert Watto.
An iconic figure in our mission, Albert served with dedication as a member of the Board of Directors of Radios Ébène Développement, one of the founding entities of Médias Ébène. Recognition of his unwavering commitment was to be formally recorded at our General Meeting on March 15, when he was to be appointed Honorary President of our association.
A pioneer and tireless advocate for Christian media in French-speaking Africa, he leaves behind a valuable legacy. In 1977, alongside Charles Guillot, he launched holistic and innovative program formats specifically designed to reflect the reality of African listeners.
To honor his memory and his work, we are republishing today the tribute written by Charles Guillot about his friend and companion. This document is available in its entirety in PDF format at the bottom of this page.
Arriving in France in January 1976 after working as a teacher in Congo-Kinshasa (Zaire), Djamba Albert Watto was driven by a desire to serve the Lord. He quickly became involved in missionary networks, attending the Nation Evangelical Church alongside Alain Choiquier and collaborating with the teams at Radio Cordac.
Collaboration and friendship with Charles Guillot
His decisive encounter with Charles Guillot in 1977, during the Christian Convention in the Cévennes, led to a fruitful collaboration. They first conceived "Radios Villages," an innovative project aimed at reaching rural populations through storytelling, music, and practical topics. However, the project failed due to the conservatism of the time, which rejected programs that did not consist strictly of biblical teachings.
Far from giving up, they launched "Le défi de l'Afrique" (Africa's Challenge), produced by TWR. This program stands out for its humanistic approach: unable to distribute material aid, the program offers advice and guidance to listeners in need. Recorded over five years between a Parisian Baptist church and studios in Monaco, the program is broadcast by more than 50 stations. Its success is based on the concept of "an African speaking to Africans," using proverbs and skits to anchor the biblical message in cultural reality.
Albert Watto, trainer
In terms of training, Watto identified a crucial need among pastors of immigrant churches: a lack of theological background. He therefore created the DEPAF (African Department of Missiology) at the Bible Institute in Nogent-sur-Marne. For 17 years, this organization offered Saturday classes to professionalize pastoral ministry. This vision then evolved with the creation of the Afro-Caribbean Baptist Institute (IBAC) in Blanc-Mesnil, founded with Pastor Luc Saint Louis.
From left to right: Mawuena Abotchi and Juliette Kpessou, members of the FOMECAF leadership, Albert Watto and his son Odingha, August 2024, during the International Conference of Christian Works Coordination (ECOC) in Cotonou.
Finally, to unify these scattered communities, he established ECOCE (Entente et Coordination des Œuvres Chrétiennes), which today brings together 70 churches in a spiritual brotherhood. His commitment also continues as vice-chairman of the board of directors of Radios Ebène Développement.
Read Charles Guillot's testimony about Albert Watto (PDF):
Kigali 2025: a gathering for Christian media in Africa – In October 2025, the capital of Rwanda will host a major event for African Christian media. This gathering will bring together professionals from across the continent and beyond. Together, they will reflect, learn, and encourage one another in their mission: to serve the Good News through the media. Médias Ébène will take part in this seminar by sending several people who will contribute to the success of the event through their presentations. The association will also support the participation of delegates by financing the travel expenses of representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Togo, and Cameroon.
Spiritual preparation and fraternal convergence
The Médias Ébène office and the secretary of FOMECAF will be in Kigali from October 14 to 24. These meetings are eagerly awaited. Many people who have been communicating for a long time on the Internet and social networks will have the opportunity to meet in person. Virtual connections will then become real fraternal bonds.
These days will be punctuated in French and English by workshops, seminars, and times of fellowship. Participants will seek to improve their skills, but also to strengthen the quality of human relationships. For Christian media work relies as much on willing hearts as it does on technical skills.
Training in the spotlight
As a prelude to the continental conference, a training of trainers will be held from October 14 to 18, 2025. Led by speakers from Cameroon, Benin, and the United States, it will aim to unleash the educational potential of each participant in order to multiply the impact of media initiatives.
Subsequently, a network of media trainers will come together to support and equip new generations through unified and sustainable actions.
Two seminars for English speakers
For English-speaking participants, a seminar entitled "From Concept to On-The-Air" will offer comprehensive training in radio and video media programming, production, management, and sustainability.
A second, more technical seminar entitled"From the Mic to theAntenna" will present the steps necessary to create a radio station and keep it running, from the microphone to the antenna.
The Continental Convention
The highlight of this gathering will be the ABR Media Continental Convention, which will take place from October 21 to 23, 2025. The rich and varied program will address topics that are crucial for our times.
After an opening session devoted to the persecution of Christians, the place of young people in Africa will be discussed. Contemporary challenges, such as artificial intelligence (presented by the president of Médias Ébène) and pornography on social media, will be addressed with clarity.
Leadership in times of rapid change and the approach to local realities will also be a central theme. Participants will leave with practical tools for their mission.
Open and constructive discussions will enable everyone to come up with concrete ideas for improving their media work. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is also planned. This moment of reflection will highlight the importance of reconciliation and bearing witness.
A spiritual work above all else
Beyond programs and schedules, the success of such a gathering depends on prayer and the preparation of hearts. Human initiatives find their fruitfulness in the presence of God and through the action of his Spirit.
Let us pray that participants will leave with new skills, but above all with a renewed vision of their mission. "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing comes from the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17).
Every Christian media outlet thus has a calling to make the Word audible and accessible even in the most remote corners of the continent.
https://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AbR-Convention-continentale-Kigali.jpg10801080Emmanuel Ziehlihttps://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/logo-medias-ebene-web-202411-300x138.pngEmmanuel ZiehliSeptember 25, 2025, 6:12:13 p.m.September 25, 2025, 6:17 p.m.Kigali 2025: Ébène Media out in force
Catholic community targeted: at least 40 civilians killed in an attack attributed to the ADF
July 27, 2025
The center of Komanda, located in the Basili chiefdom in the territory of Irumu (approximately 75 km from Bunia, Ituri province in the DRC), was the scene of a massacre on the night of July 26-27, 2025. This deadly attack, attributed to Ugandan rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), left more than 40 civilians dead, with several people reported missing.
The heavily armed attackers entered the town simultaneously from four neighborhoods: Zunguluka, Umoja, Kipeyayo, and Buliki. They specifically targeted a Catholic religious vigil held in a multipurpose hall, where parishioners were preparing for the 50th anniversary celebrations of their local church.
One survivor, still in shock, reported: "The ADF came while we were sleeping. They locked the exits, selected who to kill and who to tie up, and took some people hostage. I survived by miracle, hiding behind motorcycle parts under a mattress, understanding their language."
Destruction and casualties
The attack caused significant material damage: homes were set on fire, shops were ransacked, and a Fuso vehicle was completely burned out with one victim inside. The attackers also reportedly killed a mentally ill person near the CADECO bank before their main incursion.
The Kipeyayo neighborhood and its surroundings were particularly affected, with several bodies reportedly still unaccounted for.
Mass exodus and economic paralysis
The attack sparked widespread panic, prompting many residents to flee to areas considered safer or to take refuge in the bush. This Sunday, the usually bustling center of Komanda remains largely deserted, with most shops closed as a precautionary measure.
Reaction from the authorities
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) claim to have regained control of the area and have deployed units to strategic access points. However, no official statement has yet been issued by the Congolese provincial or military authorities regarding this massacre.
The local population is demanding intensified military operations and greater protection for civilians, who are continually targeted in this region of Ituri, in eastern DRC, which is plagued by chronic insecurity.
The toll remains provisional, as search efforts continue to locate missing persons and victims in remote areas.
Correspondence from Olivier Okande in Komanda (DRC)
The French Institute's Cinémathèque Afrique is launching a tour in Cameroon entitled "Cinémathèque Afrique in Cameroon – Journey to the Heart of African Film Heritage," from June 10 to 13, 2025, in partnership with Cinéma Numérique Ambulant (CNA).
The aim of this event is to showcase the richness and diversity of African and Cameroonian film heritage through several initiatives: outdoor film screenings open to the general public, conferences on African cinema, and a number of local cultural events.
The Cinémathèque Afrique on the roads of Cameroon, closer to its audiences
The tour will kick off at the French Institute of Cameroon in Douala, then travel to the cities of Dibombari and Kribi, where outdoor screenings of African films, including Cameroonian films, will take place at iconic locations such as the esplanade of the Maison de la Culture in Dimbombari and Ngoyé beach in Kribi.
Africa in pictures: the Cinémathèque Afrique along Cameroon's roads and stories from the continent
Through this initiative, Cinémathèque Afrique and Cinéma Numérique Ambulant are reaching out to diverse audiences, from urban neighborhoods to rural communities, to bring them together around African cinema in an inclusive and participatory approach. The Cameroonian public will thus be able to (re)discover iconic works such as La vie est belleby Mwezé Ngangura and Benoît Lamy, Le ballon d'orby Cheik Doukouré, Bal Poussière by Henri Duparc, and Akissi by Alexandre Coste, an animated adaptation of Marguerite Abouet's comic book.
Four Cameroonian films will also be featured, including Angles byFrank Thierry, Lea Malle, Ngoungoure by AïssatouNjayou, and Wallsby Narcisse Wandji.
An educational, cultural, and civic initiative educational, cultural, and civic initiative
In addition to screenings of African and Cameroonian films, Cinémathèque Afrique and Cinéma Numérique Ambulant also organize dedicated events and discussions to encourage collective reflection on images, storytelling, and memory. This initiative is part of an inclusive cultural and educational approach aimed at raising awareness among different Cameroonian communities of the richness of Africa's cinematic heritage and strengthening critical education in the visual arts.
The Cinémathèque Afrique: a film heritage closer to its various audiences
With more than 1,800 films from 45 countries, Cinémathèque Afrique has one of the world's richest collections of African cinema, spanning from the 1950s to the present day. Its catalog includes short and feature films, animated films, documentaries, and archives. This unique heritage, representing more than a thousand filmmakers, reflects the diversity of artistic perspectives on Africa and the cultural ties forged between the younger generations of Cameroonians and Africans and their cinematic heritage.
This initiative in Cameroon is fully in line with the mission of Cinémathèque Afrique to preserve, promote, and disseminate Africa's audiovisual heritage, particularly among younger generations.
Pontarlier, May 17, 2025. Thirteen private radio stations, including five Christian stations, are at risk of disappearing as a result of a decision by the High Authority for Media and Audiovisual (HAMA). With a deadline deemed too short to comply with the requirements, these essential media outlets are calling for urgent support.
Compliance under pressure
The High Authority for Media and Audiovisual Communication (HAMA) requires new private radio stations in Chad to begin broadcasting quickly and to strictly comply with regulations before June 12, 2025. Thirteen stations are affected, including five Christian radio stations that enrich the media landscape and offer spiritual support to communities that often lack other sources of information.
A crucial issue for social cohesion
Among the stations under threat are FM Adventiste (N'Djamena), La Vie Nouvelle (Gagal), Koode Kandam (Dourbali), Matchiwala (Baktchoro), and FM Philadelphia (Kélo). Some have been in existence for several years, others have just been launched, but all face financial and administrative challenges. In response to this situation, the Médias Ebène association is calling for action to obtain an extension and concrete support so that these radio stations can continue their essential mission.
Denis Steffen, treasurer of the Médias Ébène association
https://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Radio-Tchad-1.png8701339Emmanuel Ziehlihttps://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/logo-medias-ebene-web-202411-300x138.pngEmmanuel ZiehliMay 17, 2025, 9:57:37 a.m.May 17, 2025, 10:09:09Threat to private radio stations in Chad – A call for solidarity
Image caption: Timothée Tsomana, center, wearing a red tie, with FOMECAF leaders.
Lomé, Togo, May 8, 2025. It is with deep sadness that we learned on May 8 of the death of our colleague and friend Timothée Tsomana. This loss is all the more painful as it comes only twenty days after that of his wife Esther, who passed away on April 18 at the Tokoin University Hospital. The couple leaves behind two teenage daughters, aged 12 and 15, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy and compassion.
We had the privilege of working alongside Timothée during training and capacity-building seminars organized in Lomé between 2019 and 2024. As the dynamic director of the MédiaAfrique media school, a project he took over after the IBRA radio initiative, he brought new energy to the field of training. Several members of the Médias Ébène association had the opportunity to participate as guest lecturers at this school during numerous sessions.
In addition, Timothée had generously agreed to help supervise the Forum des Médias Chrétiens d’Afrique Francophone (FOMECAF), a commitment he reaffirmed last December despite his departure from MédiaAfrique.
The Board of Directors of the Médias Ébène association extends its deepest condolences to his daughters and family, who are going through a very difficult time. May his memory live on in the projects he helped build and may he continue to inspire those who knew him.
https://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Timothee-Tsomana.jpg7921024Emmanuel Ziehlihttps://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/logo-medias-ebene-web-202411-300x138.pngEmmanuel ZiehliMay 9, 2025, 5:40:36 p.m.May 9, 2025, 5:46:09 p.m.A final farewell to Timothée Tsomana, a key figure in the media world
For its first appearance in Europe, the Médias Ebène association has chosen to participate in the "La Place" event in Paris in order to introduce its activities to the public. Organized under the auspices of the Oïkonomia Foundation and the Evangelical Center, this event aims to create a space for exchange, encounters, and celebration around evangelical Protestant initiatives. Médias Ebène will be represented during these three days by the members of its board: Denis Steffen, Christian Gaspoz, and Emmanuel Ziehli.
From Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, from 9:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Médias Ebène will take part in this event alongside more than 230 exhibitors. This strategic presence aims to strengthen the association's foothold in the French Protestant landscape.
Place 2025 enjoys the support of major partners such as the Nogent Bible Institute, CNEF Jeunesse and its network, SEL, Portes Ouvertes, the Protestant Family Associations, and CPDH – the Evangelical Protestant Committee for Human Dignity. These collaborations help to enrich the program and ensure that the event lives up to the public's expectations.
https://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/8-9-10-mai-2025-la-place.jpg10371920Emmanuel Ziehlihttps://mediasebene.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/logo-medias-ebene-web-202411-300x138.pngEmmanuel ZiehliMay 5, 2025, 9:19:45 p.m.May 5, 2025, 9:19:48 p.m.Médias Ebène at "La Place" from May 8 to 10
Repairing radios, training, and building lives: impact in 2025
French-speaking AfricaThanks to you, 2025 marks a turning point where missionary vitality and logistics have come together to serve the Gospel. Your support has enabled us to act on two fronts: constant technical monitoring and a strategic presence in the field.
From our base, the connection has never been broken. With over 2,000 messages and 1,000 calls, we have supported more than 50 contacts. Troubleshooting and real-time advice have supported stations from Burkina Faso to the far reaches of the DRC. Your help transforms this technical support into a lifeline for these isolated radio stations, ensuring that the voice of the Gospel is not silenced due to lack of maintenance.
On the ground, the impact is tangible. Our missions have taken us from the Kigali conference (180 key players) to the realities of Congo and Niger, which have come to Rwanda. A highlight of December was our presence in Lomé. In addition to the editorial seminar and six visits to radio stations, the arrival of a container of audio equipment represents a major step forward. This technical treasure, donated by a major French commercial radio station, will equip around 20 radio stations.
Caption: From left to right: Christian Gaspoz of Médias Ébène, Sabine Mussard of Fréquence Oasis La Réunion, Emmanuel Ziehli and Denis Steffen of Médias Ébène at the Kigali seminar in November 2025.
The fruits of this collaboration are tangible: 50 technicians trained in maintenance and 200 producers equipped to better proclaim the Word. We have also supported the emergence of new projects, from Guinea to Chad, responding to the call from areas still in "radio silence." Beyond the numbers, life is springing forth: in Bukavu, the rehabilitated radio station is resuming its mission; in the Central African Republic, a construction site manager found faith while listening to Radio Sinai.
Every bolt tightened is a spiritual victory shared with you. Thank you for enabling millions of souls to hear the Good News.
Radio, the last bastion of freedom and hope
French-speaking AfricaIt was in Kigali, Rwanda, that Médias Ebène participated last October in the continental seminar "Africa by Radio" (AbR), the English-speaking equivalent of the Forum des médias chrétiens d'Afrique francophone (FOMECAF), launched by our association in 2019. We played a central role in organizing the event, inviting key players, and moderating panels.
The choice of Rwanda, Congo's eastern neighbor, made it possible to welcome participants from Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. These provinces are violently shaken by armed rebel groups (M23, ADF), where insecurity and radicalism threaten peace and democratic expression. The consequences are severe: mass displacement and human rights violations.
Yet, amid all this turmoil, Christian radio stations continue to serve as beacons of hope and resilience. Three Congolese radio stations embody this light and were present in Kigali: Radio Télé Réconciliation from Nyankunde (with Jean-Luc Simbilyabo), Radio Sola Deo Gloria from Bunyakiri (with Floribert Kikwabantu), and Radio Ebène from Bukavu Chaï (with Blaise Wemba).
Jean-Luc Simbilyabo, from Ituri, had already been awarded the François Sergy Prize at FOMECAF 2020 in Lomé for his “integral radio” project. More recently, his station has managed to survive by striking deals with armed groups. His account is poignant: he welcomed men onto the radio knowing that they had committed murders that very morning.
As the year draws to a close, the association would like to pay tribute to these true heroes, who embody the values of the Kingdom of God (justice, peace, faith, devotion). Their commitment is inspiring, as their waves carry a message of light where darkness reigns.
In Kigali, we also had the joy of meeting up again with friends from Niger and Mali, where the situation remains just as precarious. To all these peacemakers and messengers of good news, we offer our gratitude and our prayers.
Médias Ébène and FOMECAF join forces in Abidjan to train peace actors
French-speaking AfricaAbidjan, Ivory Coast – The religious media landscape in French-speaking Africa is set to experience a highlight at the end of January 2026. The Forum des Médias Chrétiens d’Afrique Francophone (FOMECAF) will hold its national seminar in Abidjan, with the active support of Médias Ébène. After a year dedicated to technical equipment in 2025, the Swiss organization is kicking off 2026 with a focus on skills development and strengthening ties.
A strategic meeting is taking shape at the CEFCA in Abidjan. From January 28 to 30, 2026, decision-makers and information professionals will gather to discuss a central theme: "Resilience and responsibility: the strategic role of Christian media in French-speaking Africa in the fight against radicalism, the promotion of peace, and the strengthening of social cohesion."
From equipment to training: the turning point of 2026
For Médias Ébène, this seminar marks a significant evolution in its work on the continent. After devoting 2025 to numerous technical interventions—equipment, repair, and installation of radios—the organization is starting the new year by focusing on human capital.
The objective is clear: to strengthen the capacities of local actors and forge strong links between the various stations. "Médias Ebène welcomes the FOMECAF initiative and is delighted that it will have a significant impact on Ivorian religious media," said the organization, confirming its desire to participate in the development of a credible and responsible press.
International expertise at the service of workshops
To fulfill this commitment, Médias Ébène is sending a delegation of three seasoned experts to Abidjan to lead technical workshops in the afternoon, complementing the morning plenary sessions reserved for decision-makers. These sessions will focus on the essential pillars of modern media:
Denis Steffen will speak on content management, programming, and radio administration.
Andrea Luzi will contribute his expertise in studio technologies and sound quality optimization.
Emmanuel Ziehli will address contemporary challenges: marketing, the use of artificial intelligence, and the search for funding.
A dual challenge: strategic and operational
The seminar, organized by FOMECAF, aims to address two distinct needs. The mornings will be devoted to decision-makers (developers, directors, marketing managers) to address macro-strategic issues: viable economic models, regulation, and challenges facing the sector.
In the afternoons, it's time to get down to business. Professionals (journalists, presenters, technicians) will benefit from practical workshops to hone their skills. This dual approach aims to improve the editorial, technical, and managerial quality of media outlets.
Through this event, FOMECAF and Médias Ébène reaffirm their shared mission: to structure and connect Christian media outlets so that they remain vectors of social stability, peace, and "living together" in French-speaking Africa.
In Memoriam: Djamba Albert Watto (1941–2026)
French-speaking AfricaIt is with deep sadness that we learn, at the start of this new year, of the passing of our dear friend and brother, Albert Watto.
An iconic figure in our mission, Albert served with dedication as a member of the Board of Directors of Radios Ébène Développement, one of the founding entities of Médias Ébène. Recognition of his unwavering commitment was to be formally recorded at our General Meeting on March 15, when he was to be appointed Honorary President of our association.
A pioneer and tireless advocate for Christian media in French-speaking Africa, he leaves behind a valuable legacy. In 1977, alongside Charles Guillot, he launched holistic and innovative program formats specifically designed to reflect the reality of African listeners.
To honor his memory and his work, we are republishing today the tribute written by Charles Guillot about his friend and companion. This document is available in its entirety in PDF format at the bottom of this page.
Arriving in France in January 1976 after working as a teacher in Congo-Kinshasa (Zaire), Djamba Albert Watto was driven by a desire to serve the Lord. He quickly became involved in missionary networks, attending the Nation Evangelical Church alongside Alain Choiquier and collaborating with the teams at Radio Cordac.
Collaboration and friendship with Charles Guillot
His decisive encounter with Charles Guillot in 1977, during the Christian Convention in the Cévennes, led to a fruitful collaboration. They first conceived "Radios Villages," an innovative project aimed at reaching rural populations through storytelling, music, and practical topics. However, the project failed due to the conservatism of the time, which rejected programs that did not consist strictly of biblical teachings.
Far from giving up, they launched "Le défi de l'Afrique" (Africa's Challenge), produced by TWR. This program stands out for its humanistic approach: unable to distribute material aid, the program offers advice and guidance to listeners in need. Recorded over five years between a Parisian Baptist church and studios in Monaco, the program is broadcast by more than 50 stations. Its success is based on the concept of "an African speaking to Africans," using proverbs and skits to anchor the biblical message in cultural reality.
Albert Watto, trainer
In terms of training, Watto identified a crucial need among pastors of immigrant churches: a lack of theological background. He therefore created the DEPAF (African Department of Missiology) at the Bible Institute in Nogent-sur-Marne. For 17 years, this organization offered Saturday classes to professionalize pastoral ministry. This vision then evolved with the creation of the Afro-Caribbean Baptist Institute (IBAC) in Blanc-Mesnil, founded with Pastor Luc Saint Louis.
From left to right: Mawuena Abotchi and Juliette Kpessou, members of the FOMECAF leadership, Albert Watto and his son Odingha, August 2024, during the International Conference of Christian Works Coordination (ECOC) in Cotonou.
Finally, to unify these scattered communities, he established ECOCE (Entente et Coordination des Œuvres Chrétiennes), which today brings together 70 churches in a spiritual brotherhood. His commitment also continues as vice-chairman of the board of directors of Radios Ebène Développement.
Read Charles Guillot's testimony about Albert Watto (PDF):
Kigali 2025: Médias Ébène out in force
French-speaking AfricaKigali 2025: a gathering for Christian media in Africa – In October 2025, the capital of Rwanda will host a major event for African Christian media. This gathering will bring together professionals from across the continent and beyond. Together, they will reflect, learn, and encourage one another in their mission: to serve the Good News through the media. Médias Ébène will take part in this seminar by sending several people who will contribute to the success of the event through their presentations. The association will also support the participation of delegates by financing the travel expenses of representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Togo, and Cameroon.
Spiritual preparation and fraternal convergence
The Médias Ébène office and the secretary of FOMECAF will be in Kigali from October 14 to 24. These meetings are eagerly awaited. Many people who have been communicating for a long time on the Internet and social networks will have the opportunity to meet in person. Virtual connections will then become real fraternal bonds.
These days will be punctuated in French and English by workshops, seminars, and times of fellowship. Participants will seek to improve their skills, but also to strengthen the quality of human relationships. For Christian media work relies as much on willing hearts as it does on technical skills.
Training in the spotlight
As a prelude to the continental conference, a training of trainers will be held from October 14 to 18, 2025. Led by speakers from Cameroon, Benin, and the United States, it will aim to unleash the educational potential of each participant in order to multiply the impact of media initiatives.
Subsequently, a network of media trainers will come together to support and equip new generations through unified and sustainable actions.
Two seminars for English speakers
For English-speaking participants, a seminar entitled "From Concept to On-The-Air" will offer comprehensive training in radio and video media programming, production, management, and sustainability.
A second, more technical seminar entitled"From the Mic to theAntenna" will present the steps necessary to create a radio station and keep it running, from the microphone to the antenna.
The Continental Convention
The highlight of this gathering will be the ABR Media Continental Convention, which will take place from October 21 to 23, 2025. The rich and varied program will address topics that are crucial for our times.
After an opening session devoted to the persecution of Christians, the place of young people in Africa will be discussed. Contemporary challenges, such as artificial intelligence (presented by the president of Médias Ébène) and pornography on social media, will be addressed with clarity.
Leadership in times of rapid change and the approach to local realities will also be a central theme. Participants will leave with practical tools for their mission.
Open and constructive discussions will enable everyone to come up with concrete ideas for improving their media work. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial is also planned. This moment of reflection will highlight the importance of reconciliation and bearing witness.
A spiritual work above all else
Beyond programs and schedules, the success of such a gathering depends on prayer and the preparation of hearts. Human initiatives find their fruitfulness in the presence of God and through the action of his Spirit.
Let us pray that participants will leave with new skills, but above all with a renewed vision of their mission. "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing comes from the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17).
Every Christian media outlet thus has a calling to make the Word audible and accessible even in the most remote corners of the continent.
DRC – Irumu territory in Ituri: Massacre in Komanda
French-speaking AfricaCatholic community targeted: at least 40 civilians killed in an attack attributed to the ADF
July 27, 2025
The center of Komanda, located in the Basili chiefdom in the territory of Irumu (approximately 75 km from Bunia, Ituri province in the DRC), was the scene of a massacre on the night of July 26-27, 2025. This deadly attack, attributed to Ugandan rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), left more than 40 civilians dead, with several people reported missing.
The heavily armed attackers entered the town simultaneously from four neighborhoods: Zunguluka, Umoja, Kipeyayo, and Buliki. They specifically targeted a Catholic religious vigil held in a multipurpose hall, where parishioners were preparing for the 50th anniversary celebrations of their local church.
One survivor, still in shock, reported: "The ADF came while we were sleeping. They locked the exits, selected who to kill and who to tie up, and took some people hostage. I survived by miracle, hiding behind motorcycle parts under a mattress, understanding their language."
Destruction and casualties
The attack caused significant material damage: homes were set on fire, shops were ransacked, and a Fuso vehicle was completely burned out with one victim inside. The attackers also reportedly killed a mentally ill person near the CADECO bank before their main incursion.
The Kipeyayo neighborhood and its surroundings were particularly affected, with several bodies reportedly still unaccounted for.
Mass exodus and economic paralysis
The attack sparked widespread panic, prompting many residents to flee to areas considered safer or to take refuge in the bush. This Sunday, the usually bustling center of Komanda remains largely deserted, with most shops closed as a precautionary measure.
Reaction from the authorities
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) claim to have regained control of the area and have deployed units to strategic access points. However, no official statement has yet been issued by the Congolese provincial or military authorities regarding this massacre.
The local population is demanding intensified military operations and greater protection for civilians, who are continually targeted in this region of Ituri, in eastern DRC, which is plagued by chronic insecurity.
The toll remains provisional, as search efforts continue to locate missing persons and victims in remote areas.
Correspondence from Olivier Okande in Komanda (DRC)
Cinémathèque Afrique celebrates African cinema in Cameroon in partnership with Cinéma Numérique Ambulant
French-speaking AfricaThe French Institute's Cinémathèque Afrique is launching a tour in Cameroon entitled "Cinémathèque Afrique in Cameroon – Journey to the Heart of African Film Heritage," from June 10 to 13, 2025, in partnership with Cinéma Numérique Ambulant (CNA).
The aim of this event is to showcase the richness and diversity of African and Cameroonian film heritage through several initiatives: outdoor film screenings open to the general public, conferences on African cinema, and a number of local cultural events.
The Cinémathèque Afrique on the roads of Cameroon, closer to its audiences
The tour will kick off at the French Institute of Cameroon in Douala, then travel to the cities of Dibombari and Kribi, where outdoor screenings of African films, including Cameroonian films, will take place at iconic locations such as the esplanade of the Maison de la Culture in Dimbombari and Ngoyé beach in Kribi.
Africa in pictures: the Cinémathèque Afrique along Cameroon's roads and stories from the continent
Through this initiative, Cinémathèque Afrique and Cinéma Numérique Ambulant are reaching out to diverse audiences, from urban neighborhoods to rural communities, to bring them together around African cinema in an inclusive and participatory approach. The Cameroonian public will thus be able to (re)discover iconic works such as La vie est belleby Mwezé Ngangura and Benoît Lamy, Le ballon d'orby Cheik Doukouré, Bal Poussière by Henri Duparc, and Akissi by Alexandre Coste, an animated adaptation of Marguerite Abouet's comic book.
Four Cameroonian films will also be featured, including Angles byFrank Thierry, Lea Malle, Ngoungoure by AïssatouNjayou, and Wallsby Narcisse Wandji.
An educational, cultural, and civic initiative educational, cultural, and civic initiative
In addition to screenings of African and Cameroonian films, Cinémathèque Afrique and Cinéma Numérique Ambulant also organize dedicated events and discussions to encourage collective reflection on images, storytelling, and memory. This initiative is part of an inclusive cultural and educational approach aimed at raising awareness among different Cameroonian communities of the richness of Africa's cinematic heritage and strengthening critical education in the visual arts.
The Cinémathèque Afrique: a film heritage closer to its various audiences
With more than 1,800 films from 45 countries, Cinémathèque Afrique has one of the world's richest collections of African cinema, spanning from the 1950s to the present day. Its catalog includes short and feature films, animated films, documentaries, and archives. This unique heritage, representing more than a thousand filmmakers, reflects the diversity of artistic perspectives on Africa and the cultural ties forged between the younger generations of Cameroonians and Africans and their cinematic heritage.
This initiative in Cameroon is fully in line with the mission of Cinémathèque Afrique to preserve, promote, and disseminate Africa's audiovisual heritage, particularly among younger generations.
Threat to private radio stations in Chad – A call for solidarity
Ebène Media, ChadPontarlier, May 17, 2025. Thirteen private radio stations, including five Christian stations, are at risk of disappearing as a result of a decision by the High Authority for Media and Audiovisual (HAMA). With a deadline deemed too short to comply with the requirements, these essential media outlets are calling for urgent support.
Compliance under pressure
The High Authority for Media and Audiovisual Communication (HAMA) requires new private radio stations in Chad to begin broadcasting quickly and to strictly comply with regulations before June 12, 2025. Thirteen stations are affected, including five Christian radio stations that enrich the media landscape and offer spiritual support to communities that often lack other sources of information.
A crucial issue for social cohesion
Among the stations under threat are FM Adventiste (N'Djamena), La Vie Nouvelle (Gagal), Koode Kandam (Dourbali), Matchiwala (Baktchoro), and FM Philadelphia (Kélo). Some have been in existence for several years, others have just been launched, but all face financial and administrative challenges. In response to this situation, the Médias Ebène association is calling for action to obtain an extension and concrete support so that these radio stations can continue their essential mission.
Denis Steffen, treasurer of the Médias Ébène association
A final farewell to Timothée Tsomana, a key figure in the media
French-speaking AfricaImage caption: Timothée Tsomana, center, wearing a red tie, with FOMECAF leaders.
Lomé, Togo, May 8, 2025. It is with deep sadness that we learned on May 8 of the death of our colleague and friend Timothée Tsomana. This loss is all the more painful as it comes only twenty days after that of his wife Esther, who passed away on April 18 at the Tokoin University Hospital. The couple leaves behind two teenage daughters, aged 12 and 15, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy and compassion.
We had the privilege of working alongside Timothée during training and capacity-building seminars organized in Lomé between 2019 and 2024. As the dynamic director of the MédiaAfrique media school, a project he took over after the IBRA radio initiative, he brought new energy to the field of training. Several members of the Médias Ébène association had the opportunity to participate as guest lecturers at this school during numerous sessions.
In addition, Timothée had generously agreed to help supervise the Forum des Médias Chrétiens d’Afrique Francophone (FOMECAF), a commitment he reaffirmed last December despite his departure from MédiaAfrique.
The Board of Directors of the Médias Ébène association extends its deepest condolences to his daughters and family, who are going through a very difficult time. May his memory live on in the projects he helped build and may he continue to inspire those who knew him.
Ebène Media at "La Place" from May 8 to 10
Christian media in French-speaking Africa, Médias EbèneFor its first appearance in Europe, the Médias Ebène association has chosen to participate in the "La Place" event in Paris in order to introduce its activities to the public. Organized under the auspices of the Oïkonomia Foundation and the Evangelical Center, this event aims to create a space for exchange, encounters, and celebration around evangelical Protestant initiatives. Médias Ebène will be represented during these three days by the members of its board: Denis Steffen, Christian Gaspoz, and Emmanuel Ziehli.
From Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, from 9:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m., Médias Ebène will take part in this event alongside more than 230 exhibitors. This strategic presence aims to strengthen the association's foothold in the French Protestant landscape.
Place 2025 enjoys the support of major partners such as the Nogent Bible Institute, CNEF Jeunesse and its network, SEL, Portes Ouvertes, the Protestant Family Associations, and CPDH – the Evangelical Protestant Committee for Human Dignity. These collaborations help to enrich the program and ensure that the event lives up to the public's expectations.
Join "La Place"