The Annual General Meeting of the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) opened Thursday in Juba, bringing together media executives, journalists, and partners from across the country.
The two-day meeting will conclude Friday with the election of new officers for the AMDISS executive board.
Irene Ayaa, AMDISS director, said the AGM is vital for maintaining a professional media sector and highlighted the organization’s role in journalist training and mentorship since its founding in 2003.
“This AGM is not only a platform to review our achievements, but also a space to strengthen governance, elect a new board, and set the strategic agenda for the next term. A strong AMDISS means a strong media in South Sudan,” she said.
Ayaa acknowledged challenges including funding shortfalls, the loss of major donors, and the need to support members across the country. She thanked AMDISS staff, partners including Norwegian Church Aid, Norwegian People’s Aid, IFEX, Reporters Without Borders, and the executive board for sustaining operations.
The AGM agenda includes reviewing secretariat and financial reports and setting priorities for media capacity building, advocacy, and sustainability ahead of upcoming national events, including elections.
Josephine Achiro, chairperson of the AMDISS board, said community and private media outlets struggle with minimal resources and inconsistent donor support. Rising registration and licensing fees have left some community radio stations unable to pay for several years, putting them at risk of closure.
“We need to think outside the box to keep our media running and serving our communities,” Achiro said, urging creative solutions and stronger community engagement, including small contributions from local listeners to support operations.
Michael Ooko, deputy country director of Norwegian Church Aid, praised AMDISS for its role in training journalists and supporting civil society. Representing the organization’s country director, he said the AGM reflects accountability and transparency and encouraged members to pursue sustainable funding strategies.
“AMDISS has been resilient despite financial and operational challenges. The media is the voice of society, and it is critical that members uphold professional ethics and accountability,” Ooko said.
AMDISS is a media advocacy and training organization that promotes professional journalism and advocates for independent media in South Sudan.