In the heart of Kinshasa, the bustling capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the 10th congress of the National Press Union of Congo (UNPC) was successfully held in September 2024. This major event was a place of reflection and sharing for key players in the media sector, and in particular for the Online Media Association of the DRC (MILRDC).
MILRDC’s active engagement during this congress was welcomed by all participants. In particular, the association’s proposal to strengthen advocacy for media access to direct and indirect aid defined by the Ordinance-Law of March 13, 2023 was adopted. This crucial step forward allows the UNPC to be in line with the new legal framework for media in the DRC, and to play a leading role in supporting and ensuring the sustainability of press companies, including online media.
Furthermore, MILRDC welcomes the integration of its recommendation concerning the vocational training and trade union action commission. The establishment of an annual training calendar for journalists will constitute a real added value for the sector, by enriching training programs and promoting continuous skills recycling.
As a member of the UNPC, MILRDC intends to actively support the new steering committee, in particular in promoting journalistic ethics and taking into account the specificities of online media. The association is ready to provide its expertise and support to contribute to the positive development of the digital information ecosystem in the DRC.
MILRDC’s missions are multiple and committed: from the expression and defense of the professional interests of online information media, to the promotion of a quality press on the Internet, through the strengthening of the capacities of online media and the reflection on the economic viability of these essential actors of freedom of expression.
The 2024 UNPC Congress will therefore remain a key moment in the Congolese media landscape, marked by significant advances for the sector and promising prospects for the future of the online press in the DRC.