### APO IPAN ASH: an invaluable cultural and professional heritage for Congolese journalism
The death of APO IPAN ASH on February 7, 2025 at the age when professional maturity still promises days of expertise is not only a loss for his family and loved ones, but also a blow for Congolese journalism, a sector which is already struggling to assert itself in an often difficult environment. Buried on February 18, 2025 in the necropolis cemetery, his memory is honored by the community of media and men of culture, triggering an urgent need to question the future of journalism in a country and an era when the voices of intellectuals like APO become of more and more rare.
#### Flame in Congolese journalism
It is essential to emphasize that APO IPAN was not just a simple office manager of the Communication/Press Division at the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF). His career extended to emblematic platforms such as RTNC (Congolese National Radio-Television) and Educ TV, where he cultivated the art of narration and the dissemination of relevant and engaging information. Before his death, he had managed to create a bridge between journalism, teaching and public service. This triple role allowed him to build an influence which goes far beyond his official functions.
As Jean-Marie Kassamba, the president of the National Union of the Congolese press pointed out, APO IPAN was a man of letters and an intellectual. But its contribution to the valuation of Congolese culture has often passed over in silence. The importance of its efforts to integrate elements of indigenous culture into the media, while defending the state and its values, deserves to be examined in depth. As such, it represents a figure inspiring for many, but also a model of what a committed journalist can accomplish.
#### The communication model at IGF
The reorganization of communication at IGF with a clear objective of fighting corruption is based on well -thought -out strategies, which Lecoeur Mutshipay has highlighted by recalling the collaboration that has started since the arrival of APO. Yesterday as today, the challenge remains immense for journalists in search of transparent and responsible communication in a sector often perceived as opaque. The initiatives launched at IGF constitute a precedent inspiring for other public institutions which often see in communication a simple propaganda tool.
#### An enlarged impact: when journalism meets education
The attachment of APO IPAN to the National Educational University (UPN) underlines another dimension of its inheritance: the transmission of knowledge. Education and journalism are intrinsically linked sectors; Both have the power to change the company. APO IPAN not only informed the masses, but also trained generations of journalists, equipping them with the skills necessary to navigate a constantly evolving media landscape.
In the context of the evolution of digital media, where false information swarm and where credibility is often questioned, the path of APO IPAN could well serve as a common thread to formulate new educational strategies that combine journalism and ethics.
### towards a collective reflection on the future of Congolese journalism
The tribute paid to APO IPAN must result in a broader introspection on the future of journalism in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We are witnessing a change in the profession requiring a renewed commitment around the values of ethics, responsibility and innovation. In this context, the creation of new spaces for dialogue and collaboration between journalists, academics and communication professionals turns out to be crucial. Platforms like Fatshimetrie.org have a role to play in this dynamic.
One of the current challenges lies in the ability of the media to adapt to new technologies, while preserving critical mind and factual rigor. APO IPAN’s skills and commitment should serve as a benchmark and an anchoring point for future generations which must remember that journalism is not simply a profession, but a vocation in the service of the public.
### Conclusion
APO IPAN ASH will never be forgotten, not only for his contributions to the media world, but also for the passion he has put in his work and for the inspiration he continues to represent. By remembering your career, it is imperative to think about the challenges and opportunities that stand in front of Congolese journalism. The sustainability of its inheritance will depend on our collective capacity to promote a free, responsible and committed profession in a society in search of truth.