60th UAJ Training for Young Journalists opens with a strong call for ceasefire in Gaza

The 60th anniversary training of the Union of African Journalists (UAJ) began in Cairo. It opened with a strong call for a ceasefire in Gaza. This set a bold tone for young journalists from Africa.

Ambassador Ahmed Haggag delivered the keynote address. He is a long-time UAJ member and former African Union official. He condemned the killing of journalists in Palestine and urged unity among African journalists.

"More than 100 journalists have been killed in Palestine," he said. "Some were killed alongside their children, even in front of their families." He emphasized that what is happening in Gaza must be condemned.

Ambassador Haggag noted that Israel ranks second globally for journalist deaths. Most of these victims are Palestinian journalists. He pointed out that no international media reports from inside Gaza, except for Palestinian outlets.

The opening session reaffirmed the African Union’s support for Palestine. Ambassador Haggag highlighted that this issue is always on AU summit agendas. He praised South Africa for taking legal action against Israel at the International Court of Justice over alleged genocide.

He also mentioned the backlash faced by African countries speaking out. “Groups supporting Israel have imposed sanctions on South Africa and others,” he stated.

Participants in the UAJ training will meet with the Ambassador of Palestine to Egypt. The program will explore how African media can contribute to global justice movements.

This three-week training celebrates 60 years of journalist development by UAJ. It gathers young journalists from across Africa, including JoyNews’ Emmanuel Dzivenu, to discuss traditional values and new storytelling techniques.

The curriculum covers various topics:

- Economic integration and free labor organization in Africa
- Soft power and African identity
- Protection of journalists in hostile environments
- Creating compelling digital content for social media
- Cross-border collaboration and news exchange

Ambassador Haggag reflected on his efforts to strengthen media ties between East and North Africa while serving as Egypt’s ambassador to Kenya and Ethiopia. He encouraged participants to build networks across borders.

“We ensured Egyptian newspapers published columns about African news,” he said. “Kenyan papers like The Nation carried columns on Arab affairs.”

Ghana has also called for restraint regarding the Gaza conflict. In 2024, then-President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed concern over humanitarian issues there, urging respect for international law.

In 2015, President Mahama stated Ghana supports a two-state solution to the conflict: "A peaceful Israel coexisting with a sovereign Palestinian state." He called for an end to settlement construction in Palestinian territories.

In closing, Ambassador Haggag urged Egyptian journalists to connect more deeply with their African counterparts. “You must collaborate,” he stressed, highlighting that shared stories are vital for future journalism.

The UAJ has organized cultural activities and sightseeing during the training program so participants can explore Egypt's rich history.

As the war in Gaza continues, this training has become more than just skills development; it encourages young journalists to find their voice on truth, justice, and global solidarity.