The African sports press, represented by delegates from 25 countries, convened in Baku, Azerbaijan for the 77th congress of the world sports press. During this meeting, the Africa section of the international sports press association (AIPS-MONDE) outlined its new roadmap for the coming years.
The delegates acknowledged the challenges faced by the African sports press in previous years but also highlighted the progress made since the establishment of a new executive committee. Obi Mitchell, a Nigerian journalist, was appointed as the head of this committee.
Several positive developments were announced for the African sports press:
- Signing of a headquarters agreement with Morocco, where the new headquarters of the African sports press is located.
- Partnership project with Royal Air Maroc to facilitate travel for African sports press members, including discounts on transport tickets.
- Training program for young reporters with 100% African training on the continent before CAN 2015.
- Establishment of an AIPS-AFRICA women’s section.
- Creation of a committee of “wise men” to address issues related to the presence of multiple sports press associations in certain countries.
- Honoring former presidents Mamadou Koumé of Senegal and Boumid Belaid of Morocco as honorary members.
- Appointment of Kenyan Evelyn Watta as the secretary general of AIPS-WORLD.
Gianni Merlo, president of AIPS-WORLD, commended the progress made by AIPS-AFRICA and emphasized the importance of responsible journalism within the organization.
These developments mark significant steps forward for the African sports press as it celebrates the 90th anniversary of AIPS this year.
Tags: AIPS, Azerbaijan, Gianni Merlo, Obi Mitchell
