Claudy Siar, director of Benin Influence and special advisor to the President of the Republic on Culture, Media, and Visibility, announced a strategic media conference on Monday, 19 October 2026. The announcement took place at the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC) headquarters in Cotonou. During the briefing, the HAAC president stated, "It is time for our media in Benin to be more powerful than foreign media." This gathering aims to address the development and reach of domestic broadcasting entities. Organizers intend for the event to strengthen the standing of local outlets within the national information sector. The announcement was made on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the HAAC headquarters in Cotonou, marking a formal commencement of the planning phase for this institutional assembly.
Defining Future Media Goals
Organizers structured the upcoming agenda to address two central inquiries: "Who are we and where do we want to go?" These questions serve as the foundation for evaluating the current status of the national information sector and determining the trajectory for domestic broadcasting entities. The conference aims to answer the questions: 'Who are we and where do we want to go?' By reflecting on these core identities, the conference participants intend to establish a clearer path for the growth and sustainability of local outlets. This inquiry process is expected to provide a roadmap for media stakeholders to evaluate their current operational frameworks and long-term strategic ambitions.
Economic viability for media companies occupies a primary place in the strategic discussions. Participants plan to examine financial models that support the longevity of these organizations, moving beyond traditional funding constraints. Improving the economic performance of these firms remains a stated priority for the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC) and other stakeholders involved in the initiative. The initiative seeks to improve the economic viability of media companies and strengthen Benin's brand image. By focusing on these financial pillars, the authorities hope to ensure that domestic broadcasting entities can sustain their operations while maintaining high standards of reporting.
Strengthening the brand image of Benin through media output also features as a central objective. The initiative aims to refine how domestic outlets represent the nation, both to local audiences and international observers. By elevating the quality and reach of national reporting, proponents expect to create a more consistent and positive perception of the country. This effort connects the operational success of entities like the Benin Radio and Television Company (SRTB S.A.) to the broader goal of national visibility. Edouard Djogbénou and Édouard Loko are involved in the broader discussions regarding these institutional objectives. The conference serves as a platform to align these individual company goals with the collective ambition of the national media sector. Through these collaborative efforts, the participants aim to foster an environment where local media can effectively project the values and identity of Benin to a wider audience, ensuring that the national narrative is both strong and influential in the competitive landscape of modern broadcasting.