Nairobi: Catholic media outlets across Africa have been encouraged to take a stronger role in helping people understand and apply the recommendations of the Synod on Synodality. The call was made during a recent regional communication meeting held in Nairobi where media leaders and communication coordinators from across the AMECEA region gathered to discuss how Catholic broadcasting can support Church efforts.
Fr Andrew Kaufa, who serves as the Social Communications Coordinator for AMECEA, said that Catholic owned media have an important mission at this stage of the synod process. According to him, media should not only inform people that the Synod on Synodality has taken place but also help explain what the final document means for local parishes, Church groups and communities.
He said many believers have heard about the Synod but do not clearly understand how it relates to their daily faith life. He added that radio stations, television networks and online platforms can play a key role in teaching, listening and encouraging active participation.
Participants at the Nairobi meeting also discussed the possibility of creating a shared continental framework for Catholic television programming. The aim is to strengthen collaboration among media outlets so that content can be shared more easily and important themes such as synodality receive wider coverage.
This renewed focus on communication comes as the global synod process enters a new phase. Various study groups in Rome are preparing final reports on topics like the role of women, digital evangelisation and formation of clergy. Once these reports are made public, Church leaders in Africa expect Catholic media to help explain them in simple language and make them accessible to the faithful.
Church leaders believe the Synod on Synodality is not simply a meeting or a document but a new way of walking together as a Church. They say media will play an essential role in making this vision visible and practical in African communities.