BAMAKO, Oct. 28 (Xinhua) -- Mali has embarked on a revitalization program for its national news agency under the theme of "For Accessible, Credible and Sovereign Information."
Unveiled on Monday at the Bamako International Conference Center, the event aims to reposition the Malian News Agency (AMAP), while also inspiring collective reflection on the future development of both the institution and Mali's broader public media sector.
Malian Minister of Communication, Digital Economy and Administrative Modernization Alhamdou Ag Ilyene presided over the launching ceremony, with the presence of Minister of Handicrafts, Culture, Hotel Industry, and Tourism Mamou Daffe, as well as Minister of Health and Social Development Assa Badiallo Toure.
In his remarks, Ilyene described AMAP, national broadcaster ORTM, and the National Communication Agency for Development as "strategic instruments of the state."
"These institutions must be strengthened, modernized and valued to meet citizens' expectations and ensure equitable access to reliable, sovereign information," he stressed.
Reviving AMAP marks "a decisive step" in the government's efforts to modernize the media sector, said Ilyene. He also reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving journalists' working conditions, enhancing their professional capacities, and ensuring their safety.
According to AMAP Director-General Alassane Souleymane, the program seeks to adapt the agency to current media realities and reinforce its role in Mali's information ecosystem.
"A news agency is a wholesaler of information. We must build a new model that reflects today's challenges and opportunities," he said.
Adriana Borra, representative of the United Nations Children's Fund, welcomed the timing of the campaign, highlighting the importance of verified, impartial, and human rights-based reporting amid the rise of misinformation.
