Ministers of Culture and Sports from various East African countries stated that the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) has a significant capacity to promote the culture, language, and history of countries in the region.
The ministers, who are participating in the East African Culture and Arts Festival and Symposium, visited the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation's media complex.
During the visit, the Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, mentioned that EBC is a media outlet that prominently showcases Ethiopia's diverse identity and stated that this should be expanded to East Africa.
The Minister explained that East African countries have many cultural and linguistic connections, and EBC's current capacity allows it to highlight these connections.
Recalling that Ethiopia has an unwavering African stance that has not changed with leadership transitions, she stated that EBC should focus on a narrative that connects East Africa, Africa, and the world.
The Ministry also announced that it will work with EBC to strengthen the ties between peoples.
Dr. Gabo Brave, the Permanent Secretary of Youth and Arts of Rwanda, on his part, noted that he observed EBC to be a very large media organization with technologically advanced and large equipment.
He mentioned that the media outlet has a predominantly young workforce and a conducive working environment, stating that this capacity has the potential to connect Africa beyond East Africa.
Dr. Gabo emphasized that Africans should tell their own stories and culture themselves, and for this, a large media institution like EBC has a significant contribution.
During the visit, Getnet Tadesse, the CEO of EBC, who gave a presentation to the guests, stated that EBC will fulfill its responsibility to strengthen the cultural ties of East Africa.
He further called upon the ministers to take this as a task and encourage East African countries to participate in the Ethiopian Idol competition, which EBC organizes to encourage talented individuals.