The International News Media Association (INMA) played host to a webinar featuring two stalwarts of the African digital news landscape: Jacob Otieno, Managing Editor of TUKO.co.ke, and Rahaman Abiola, Editor-in-Chief of Legit.ng.
Their collective insights shed light to the path forward for newsrooms seeking to expand their reach and engagement in the digital age.
The webinar attracted a diverse audience of over a hundred media professionals from across the globe. From Algeria to Zambia, participants eagerly tuned in to glean wisdom from these leading figures in African journalism.
The discussion focused on harnessing technology to propel newsroom growth. Otieno, drawing from his extensive experience at TUKO.co.ke, underscored the pivotal role of data in shaping editorial decisions.
He emphasized the importance of real-time analytics in understanding audience preferences and staying ahead of emerging trends.
Abiola, representing Legit.ng, provided valuable insights into content distribution strategies. With a focus on search engine optimization (SEO) techniques and the cultivation of original, expert-driven content, Abiola outlined Legit.ng’s approach to maximizing visibility and user engagement.
He also highlighted the success of Legit.ng’s WhatsApp channels as a potent tool for driving traffic and fostering audience loyalty.
Throughout the webinar, participants were treated to a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. From innovative audience engagement strategies to the importance of multimedia storytelling, Otieno and Abiola left no stone unturned in their quest to equip fellow journalists with the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital landscape.
But the webinar was more than just a forum for sharing insights—it was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the global media community. As Doreen Mbaya, Africa Division Manager of INMA, noted in her closing remarks, initiatives like this webinar are essential for fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing across borders.
The impact of events like this extends far beyond the virtual confines of a webinar platform. By bringing together journalists from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, it not only enriches the understanding of the media landscape but also pave the way for a more vibrant and inclusive future for journalism.
