Details
KAS Media Africa will host the Local Journalism Conference and 2026 Awards from 21 to 25 February in Lilongwe, Malawi, bringing together journalists, media professionals, and partners from across Africa and Germany.
The conference will provide a platform for dialogue, exchange, and reflection on the evolving role of local journalism in democratic societies. Through discussions and shared experiences, participants will explore current challenges facing local media and examine comparative perspectives between Africa and Germany.
A highlight of the programme will be the KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award ceremony, where outstanding journalists will be recognised for their commitment to high-quality, impactful local reporting.
The event reaffirms KAS Media Africa’s commitment to supporting independent journalism, strengthening media ecosystems, and fostering cross-regional learning and collaboration.
Local journalism lies at the heart of vibrant, informed societies. It tells the stories rooted in communities, gives voice to lived experiences, and helps audiences understand how national and global developments shape everyday life. When practiced with professionalism and integrity, local reporting not only strengthens public trust but can also elevate local issues to national and even international attention. At a time of rapid technological change and growing pressure on newsrooms, strong local journalism remains essential to democratic discourse.
The KAS Media Africa Local Journalism Award recognises outstanding journalistic work that highlights the importance of local reporting across Sub-Saharan Africa. The award celebrates journalists who, through high professional standards and compelling storytelling, bring local realities into focus and demonstrate how community-level reporting contributes to broader public understanding.
