Sicom salon calls for media law modernization in Congo

The first edition of the Salon of Information, Communication, and Media (Sicom) in Kintélé has highlighted the urgent need to modernize the legislative framework governing the media sector in the Republic of the Congo.

Participants emphasized that existing laws from 1991, 2001, and 2003 must be updated to address the rise of digital audiovisual technologies, online platforms, and artificial intelligence. Discussions also focused on the economic viability of public and private media, proposing the activation of a press support fund and a review of the economic models for public press organs.

Linguistic diversity was another key theme. Experts noted that while French is predominant, increasing the use of national languages like Lingala and Kituba is essential to reach broader populations. Additionally, the event honored the historical role of Radio Congo in training generations of journalists and its past influence on regional liberation movements.