African journalists adopt AI and decent work plan
Leaders agreed an action plan for responsible AI, better working conditions, and quality journalism across Africa.
Journalist leaders from across Africa have agreed on an action plan to promote responsible artificial intelligence (AI), improve working conditions, and ensure quality journalism continent-wide. The plan was finalised in Addis Ababa on October 24-25, 2026, following a two-day dialogue organised by the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ). The programme brought together media leaders with representatives from the African Union Commission, UNESCO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the European Union (EU).
Participants discussed how AI impacts journalism, considering its potential for research and verification against risks like fabricated content and impersonation. They also addressed poor working conditions, including low pay, job insecurity, and pressure on editorial independence, exploring how AI automation might affect newsroom staffing. Safety and protection for journalists, including violence and digital harassment, were also key agenda items, with a focus on ending impunity for crimes against them.
The discussions were informed by FAJ's recent continental survey on journalists' conditions, which gathered responses from 1,586 journalists in 45 countries. This survey aims to provide a stronger evidence base for advocacy with media organisations and governments. The FAJ stated that artificial intelligence must not worsen the precarious conditions journalists already face.
Why it mattersSomali journalists, as part of the African continent, are affected by the plan to improve working conditions and address the impact of AI on journalism.