Addis Ababa:The Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) has called upon journalists and media managers throughout Africa to adopt the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) to boost newsroom efficiency, enhance information verification, and improve the quality of journalism. The call to action was delivered during a two-day dialogue and capacity-building program held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from October 24 to 25, 2026.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event, themed 'Advancing Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Decent Work for Quality Journalism in Africa', assembled journalist leaders and representatives from the African Union Commission (AUC), UNESCO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the European Union (EU). Participants discussed the expanding influence of AI on journalism and the broader information ecosystem, identifying potential applications for AI in research, translation, and information verification.
The FAJ highlighted the necessity of safeguarding against the misuse of AI, which could undermine information integrity, promote disinformation, compromise editorial independence, and threaten journalists' jobs. Participants emphasized the need for journalists to acquire skills to use AI effectively while maintaining human judgment and editorial oversight.
Concerns were also raised about the impact of AI-driven automation and cost-cutting measures on newsroom staffing and job security, which could exacerbate existing labor challenges in the media industry, such as low salaries and insecure employment. Mr. Omar Faruk Osman, President of FAJ, underscored the link between responsible AI adoption, decent working conditions, and media freedom, stressing that AI should not worsen journalists' working conditions.
The event concluded with the adoption of a continental advocacy action plan aimed at promoting responsible AI, decent work, and quality journalism across Africa. The FAJ plans to implement the action plan with support from its affiliated organizations and through continued engagement with the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, UN agencies, and other partners. The program received funding from the ILO, the EU, and UNESCO through its Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists (MDP).