Ouagadougou: As part of the 14th edition of the African Universities of Communication of Ouagadougou (UACO 2025), which closed its doors on Friday, around the theme ‘Influence of the geopolitical context on communication and development in Africa’, several panelists delivered notable presentations during the first day.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Communicator and social worker Biron Sitapha Bihoun highlighted the role of the “Wayiyan,” support groups for the current government of Burkina Faso. Presented as defenders of popular interests and national sovereignty, they contribute, according to him, to strengthening state institutions and authority. He called for overcoming prejudices and recognizing their mission of protection and support for the stabilization process in Burkina Faso.

For her part, Dr Akoissy Clarisse Leocadie Thoat, lecturer and researcher at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny University in Abidjan, denounced the dependence of African media on models inherited from colonization. She advocated for a deconstruction of negative images of Africa and a co-construction of a positive narrative involving decision-makers, media professionals and populations, while taking advantage of social networks.

Dr. Youssoupha Halidou Harouna, film critic and specialist in film ethics, highlighted the importance of cinema as a strategic tool for cultural sovereignty. For him, the 7th art must serve to decolonize mentalities, rehabilitate African history and support the refoundation of the Sahel states.

These communications reflect the desire of UACO 2025 to strengthen reflection on the links between communication, sovereignty and development, in a context marked by security and geopolitical challenges in Africa.