The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), in collaboration with esteemed industry partners, has introduced the highly anticipated East Africa Public Relations Week. This momentous event was officially revealed during a press conference held by the Nation Media Group, heralding the convergence of over 300 seasoned professionals from across the African continent.
Scheduled to unfold against the breathtaking backdrop of the Jinja Nile Resort, the #EAPRW2023 Summit aspires to be a vital platform for dynamic conversations surrounding the most pressing issues shaping the global and regional PR landscape. With a multifaceted agenda encompassing topics like artificial intelligence, East African integration, content creation, crisis management, sustainability, and digitization, this event promises to create an environment of knowledge exchange and progressive thought leadership.
The Summit’s guest of honor is none other than Vice President of Uganda, Hon. Jessica Alup, with Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, EAC Minister, delivering the keynote address. The conference will also be graced by high-profile figures including Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for ICT and National Guidance for Uganda, Hon. Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy for Kenya, and Hon. Nape Moses Nnauye, the Minister of ICT from Tanzania.
During a press briefing, Ms. Tina Wamala, President of PRAU, emphasized the significance of addressing the emerging challenges in the PR industry. She stated, “The summit will provide an unprecedented opportunity for ministers and industry leaders to recognize the pivotal role of PR in supporting the integration of the East African Community. Our theme, ‘Advancing PR Excellence for East African Unity,’ underscores our commitment to leveraging the power of communication to bolster the EAC’s cohesive development.”
With anticipated attendees from countries such as Nigeria, Zambia, Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, and other nations, this Summit is expected to foster a rich environment of cross-cultural collaboration and mutual knowledge sharing. It is a unique opportunity for professionals in the PR industry to learn from each other and collectively shape the future of PR within the region and beyond.
The week-long Summit will culminate in the highly anticipated PRAU Excellence Awards, where outstanding contributions to the field of PR will be recognized and celebrated. These awards highlight the importance of acknowledging and rewarding excellence in the PR profession.
Ms. Wamala concluded by stating, “We eagerly await the participation of industry peers at this esteemed event. Let us harness this unique opportunity to garner fresh insights, cultivate inspiration, and fortify our shared commitment to elevating the standards of our vibrant profession. Together, we can collectively shape the future of PR within the region and beyond.”
The expected outcomes of the #EAPRW2023 Summit are diverse and profound. Attendees can look forward to:
Empowering Insights: Attendees will gain invaluable insights and skills for professional growth, enhancing their abilities and understanding of the PR field.
Networking Opportunities: The Summit aims to foster stronger networks and relationships among PR professionals across the East African region, enhancing collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Cutting-edge Trends: Exploring cutting-edge PR trends and their applicability within the regional context, providing professionals with the tools to stay at the forefront of their field.
Ethical Practices: Reinforcing a steadfast commitment to upholding ethical PR practices in the face of modern information challenges, ensuring that PR professionals maintain the highest standards of integrity.
Advancing East African Unity: Cultivating a heightened awareness of the critical role played by PR in advancing East African unity, emphasizing the importance of communication in regional development.
Excellence Awards: Honoring exceptional PR achievements through the esteemed PRAU Excellence Awards, recognizing and celebrating those who have made outstanding contributions to the profession.
The Summit’s partners include the Uganda Communications Commission, Bank of Uganda, Deposit Protection Fund Uganda, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Stanbic Bank Uganda, Nile Breweries, Uganda Airlines, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Red Cross Society, Nation Media Group, and Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority.
The East Africa Public Relations Week Summit promises to be a transformative event that brings together PR professionals, industry leaders, and policymakers to shape the future of PR in the East African region. It’s an exciting opportunity for professionals to gain insights, build networks, and contribute to the advancement of East African unity through effective communication and public relations practices.
Cyrille Djami.