On this occasion of World Radio Day 2026, we at the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) join broadcasters, journalists and media stakeholders around the world in celebrating the theme “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice”
The theme comes at a defining moment for radio, as artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly reshapes how content is produced, distributed and consumed across digital platforms.
The internet has already been profoundly disruptive to traditional media, including radio; and for many, the emergence and relentless evolution of AI only accelerates the course and aggravates the consequences of this disruption.
Yet, in spite of these challenges, radio remains the most accessible and trusted medium for millions of people, particularly in West Africa. It continues to play a vital role in information access, civic participation, local culture and democratic accountability; underscoring the enduring resilience of radio.
This same resilience positions radio to harness the opportunities that AI presents. AI holds significant potential to make radio more efficient, more utilitarian and, ultimately, more impactful. From enhanced news gathering and audience engagement to language translation, archiving, and improved newsroom efficiency, the affordances of AI, if thoughtfully harnessed, can renew the legacy of radio as a democratic commons. It can enable radio to better serve diverse communities, expand reach to underserved audiences and strengthen public interest broadcasting.
However, in a sub-region where the contagion of junta regimes and controversially procured term extensions are putting democratic norms under severe strain, the spectre of the misuse of AI cannot be ignored. Its integration must be guided by robust ethical standards, transparency and respect for editorial independence.
As AI tools increasingly influence content creation and distribution, it is essential to safeguard accuracy, human oversight, data protection and the autonomy of journalists and audiences.
On this World Radio Day, the Media Foundation for West Africa reaffirms its commitment to promoting innovation that strengthens radio’s public service mission. The Foundation also reaffirms its commitment to advocating for policies and practices that ensure AI enhances, rather than undermines, the imperatives of credibility and trust, media freedom and freedom of expression in West Africa, and globally.
