SIGNIS Africa has renewed its leadership, electing a new continental board during its General Assembly held alongside the SIGNIS World Congress in Kigali, Rwanda.
Rwandan priest Fr Fidele Mutabazi was elected president, succeeding Fr Walter Ihejirika, who served in the position for eight years. Kenya’s Virginia Kabugu was chosen as vice president, while Fr Abbé K. Alexis of Burkina Faso became secretary-treasurer.
The new board also includes Sr Anastancia of Mozambique, Martin Matambo of Zimbabwe and Mwami Daka of Zambia. Their election reflects the growing role of African Catholic communicators in shaping the future of the global communication network.
The leadership change comes as Catholic media organisations across Africa confront a rapidly changing communication environment. Digital platforms, misinformation and declining trust in institutions are creating new demands for professional, ethical and inclusive communication.
SIGNIS brings together Catholic communicators working in areas including journalism, broadcasting, film, digital media and communication training. Its regional structures support collaboration and help members respond to emerging challenges in the media landscape.
The new board is expected to strengthen cooperation among national SIGNIS associations, promote training and encourage greater participation by young people and women in Catholic media. It will also represent Africa’s priorities within the wider global association.
The transition follows the completion of Fr Ihejirika’s tenure, during which SIGNIS Africa expanded its engagement with Catholic communication networks and prepared to host the global congress in Kigali.
With a new team now in place, attention will turn to how SIGNIS Africa translates its communication mission into practical action across the continent. Its priorities will include building local media capacity, supporting responsible digital communication and ensuring that African voices receive greater visibility in global Catholic media discussions.
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