The Global Media Forum 2025, a two-day international gathering of journalists, media professionals, and thought leaders, concluded on Tuesday, July 8, in Bonn, Germany.

The forum centered on emerging challenges and opportunities shaping the global media landscape.

Held from July 7–8 at the Bundeskunsthalle, Kunstmuseum Bonn, and Deutsche Welle (DW) Headquarters, the forum featured discussions, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at shaping the future of journalism.

Cape Media Limited, the parent company of Kenya’s fast-growing TV47 and Radio47, was represented by Geoffrey Mung’ou, Head of Radio47.

One of the key speakers was outgoing Deutsche Welle Director General Peter Limbourg. He spoke strongly about the need to protect journalists and content creators from restrictive laws. He stressed that a free press is essential for democracy and urged journalists to focus on truth, fact-checking, and explaining not just what happens, but why it matters.

Limbourg also called for urgent global action to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI). He warned that while AI offers potential, it also poses risks if not properly managed. In a clever wordplay, he said, “Be open, don’t Open-AI,” pointing to the need for careful use and control of these technologies.

Other discussions during the forum included how livestreams on platforms like TikTok and Twitch are changing how people receive news, how media outlets can better reach audiences on social media, and how journalists can resist censorship in both authoritarian and democratic countries.

Speakers also talked about self-censorship, the role of AI in spreading or stopping fake news, and the need to include more African voices in international media.

Some of the standout sessions included “Journalism that Listens,” which focused on community-based reporting, and “Transforming our Newsrooms Constructively,” where editors shared ideas for building more inclusive and stronger newsrooms.

The highlight of the forum was a focus on how new tools, partnerships, and strategies can help journalists fight disinformation and stay strong, especially in countries facing conflict or repression.