Médias Ébène and FOMECAF unite in Abidjan to train peace actors

Abidjan, Ivory Coast – The faith-based media landscape in French-speaking Africa is set to experience a major event in late January 2026. The Forum of Christian Media in French-Speaking Africa (FOMECAF) will hold its National Seminar in Abidjan, with the active support of Médias Ébène. After dedicating 2025 to technical infrastructure, the Swiss organization is kicking off 2026 with a focus on building skills and strengthening ties.

A strategic event is taking shape at CEFCA in Abidjan. From January 28 to 30, 2026, decision-makers and media professionals will gather to discuss a central theme: “Resilience and Responsibility: The Strategic Role of Christian Media in Francophone Africa in Combating Radicalism, Promoting Peace, and Strengthening Social Cohesion.”

From Equipment to Training: The Turning Point of 2026

For Médias Ébène, this seminar marks a significant shift in its work on the continent. After dedicating 2025 to numerous technical projects—including the provision, repair, and installation of radios—the organization is starting this new year by focusing on human capital.

The goal is clear: to build the capacity of local stakeholders and forge strong ties between the various stations. “Médias Ebène commends FOMECAF’s initiative and is delighted that it will have a tangible impact for the benefit of Ivorian faith-based media,” the organization states, reaffirming its commitment to contributing to the growth of a credible and responsible press.

International Expertise for the 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 a modern media organization:

Denis Steffen will speak on content management, programming, and radio station administration.

Andrea Luzi will contribute his expertise in studio technology and sound quality optimization.

Emmanuel Ziehli will discuss contemporary challenges: marketing, the use of artificial intelligence, and securing funding.

A Two-Pronged Challenge: Strategic and Operational

The seminar, organized by FOMECAF, aims to address two distinct needs. The mornings will be dedicated to decision-makers (developers, directors, marketing managers) to address macro-strategic issues: viable business models, regulation, and industry challenges.

In the afternoons, the focus shifts to hands-on training. Media professionals (journalists, broadcasters, technicians) will participate in practical workshops to hone their skills. This dual-track 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 organize and connect Christian media outlets so that they may continue to serve as vehicles for social stability, peace, and “living together” in French-speaking Africa.