Under the swaying palms and coastal breeze of Mombasa, Kenya, history is being written — and told — with clarity, conviction, and celebration. The African Public Relations Association (APRA) is marking 50 years of professional evolution and continental impact. The 36th Annual APRA Conference, held from June 9–13, 2025, is no ordinary gathering. It is a defining moment for public relations in Africa — a golden jubilee reflection of how far we’ve come, and a powerful vision of where we are headed.

With over  from across Africa and beyond, the conference, themed  is living proof that public relations on the continent is not only thriving but also positioning itself at the very heart of Africa’s transformation story. I write from Mombasa as the one of the privileged PR practitioners from Ghana to witness and document this momentous chapter of our shared professional journey. I am serving as a conference rapporteur. 

It is no coincidence that , where APRA was founded in 1975, is playing host to this milestone event. , President of APRA, opened the conference with a stirring message that underscored our mission: to shape narratives that serve both progress and truth. As we enter an age defined by artificial intelligence, deepfakes, and data-driven influence, Karani challenged delegates to wield digital tools responsibly — to promote , safeguard reputations, and foster continental unity.

In his words:

“Public relations must be the moral compass guiding how Africa communicates with itself and the world. Digital communication must be safe, responsible, and deeply rooted in integrity.”

, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, reminded us that Africa’s youth are the pulse of the digital revolution. He called for , noting that the PR profession must continue evolving to meet Africa’s needs.

Dr. Winnifred Nafisa Mahama, Acting Director of the Information Services Department (ISD), read a speech on behalf of Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister in Charge of Government Communications.

The speech outlined Ghana’s commitment to building transparent, citizen-focused communication systems. She introduced Ghana’s  and its upcoming  — ambitious yet necessary steps to combat misinformation and build trust in governance.

As he said,

“Speak early and often. Be transparent about what we know and don’t. And invest constantly in building the capacity of those who communicate with the public.”

In a memorable  session, , FIPR, President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, and IPRA Board Member, moved hearts and minds with her keynote address:  Drawing from her personal journey and professional achievements, Cobbah urged African women to rise boldly, break boundaries, and own their narratives.

She stated powerfully:

“We must dare to be visible, viable, and valuable. Together, let’s elevate African stories with authenticity and pride.”

Cobbah also delivered a goodwill message on behalf of IPRA, highlighting that  will be celebrated on , this  On that historic day, 

The upcoming  is already being hailed as a defining moment for global PR. In collaboration with APRA and IPR Ghana, this event will bring together communicators, policymakers, and corporate leaders under the theme 

Slated to take place at the  with a grand , the event will be graced by , President of Ghana and an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Public Relations, who will serve as 

With confirmed global figures like  and  attending, Accra will become the beating heart of global PR discourse in October.

In Mombasa, APRA did not just reflect — it . A spectacular awards ceremony paid tribute to the trailblazers who have shaped PR across Africa. From  of Nigeria, honoured as a Lifelong Champion, to Ghana’s own  (posthumously recognised as a Visionary Leader), the applause was thunderous, the gratitude profound.

, , and many others were celebrated — not only for what they’ve done but for lighting the way for future generations.

It is a transformative time for public relations in Africa. Kenya is on the brink of passing its own, positioning itself as a leader in professional regulation — a move Ghana is also pursuing, with IPR Ghana driving the legislative process. Nigeria, ever vibrant, has accepted the mantle to host , sparking celebratory cheers that echoed through the Mombasa air.

In the words of , President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations:

“Africa’s time is now. And communication is the fuel of transformation.”

In Closing: One Africa, One Voice

As we celebrate APRA’s golden jubilee, one truth emerges: Africa is finding its voice — and using it. Not to mimic the world, but to inspire it. Not to catch up, but to lead.

With initiatives like the PR Knowledge Sharing Conference, cross-continental cooperation on media literacy and communication protocols, and the bold ascent of African leadership in global bodies like IPRA, African public relations is undergoing a renaissance — grounded in values, lifted by innovation, and fuelled by unity.

From Mombasa to Accra, Lagos to Nairobi, a new era of ethical, strategic, and transformational communication is being born.

And we are all part of this story.

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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.