by admin | Mar 25, 2025 | business, journalism, news, news media, technology
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To access additional Mail content, click here to subscribe to Mail+.
Since its establishment in 1896 by Alfred Harmsworth during the era of the telegraph, the Daily Mail has prospered through the strategic adoption of cutting-edge technologies.
Never has this statement been truer than it is today as we take pride in
announce
In addition to being Britain’s top-selling print newspaper every day of the week, the Mail also boasts over 250,000 digital subscribers.
Over 92,000 subscribers have joined Mail+ Editions – the digital version that mirrors the print edition of the newspaper you can read.
read using your tablet or smartphone
So far, over 163,000 people have enrolled in Mail+ to access the extensive collection of high-qualitysubscriber-exclusive articles on MailOnline.
Considering that Mail+ was introduced less than a year and a half ago, this rapid growth positions Mail as one of the quickest-rising newspaper subscription services globally.
Moreover, to emphasize that the Daily Mail has become a significant British export, approximately 21,000 subscribers reside in the United States, even though Mail+ was only introduced there last month.
Another 11,000 reside in Australia, where they revel in the outstanding tales emerging from our country.
Sydney
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail print edition remains ahead of its competitors, increasing this lead over time.
Actually, each week, we manage to sell 1.1 million additional copies compared to our nearest rival, The Sun, while The Times lags significantly farther behind.
Throughout the week, one out of every three national newspapers sold belongs to the Mail.
On Saturdays, when we exceed one million sales, 13 Daily Mails are purchased each second.
Ted Verity, the Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Mail, stated: “I believe there has never been a more thrilling period for being a Mail journalist. It’s an era where your content can reach and engage with a larger audience across numerous platforms and in various corners of the globe.”
The swift success of our subscription services is a remarkable testament to the skill and dedication of our exceptional team comprising reporters, writers, photographers, videographers, and editors.
However, this is merely the beginning. Our next objective should be to continually increase our subscriber base year after year, all of which will be supported by the exceptional and highly appealing journalistic content provided exclusively by the Daily Mail.
The Mail has appointed Celia Duncan as the world’s first Global Women’s Editor.
For years, The Mail has been at the forefront of providing exceptional coverage tailored for Britain’s largest and most dedicated group of women readers.
Today, we’re taking our dedication to women’s journalism a step further by appointing the world’s first Global Women’s Editor.
Celia Duncan, who came onboard in 2015 from The Times, will advance into this position following her collaboration with our exceptionally skilled groups of international editors and writers to introduce Mail+, our excellent new digital subscription service, in both Australia and the United States.
Ted Verity, the Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Mail, stated: “Over many years, exceptional journalism focused on women has been the core essence of the Mail.”
However, Celia has elevated this significantly by generating thousands of dazzling daily features, as well as three must-read weekly segments in Femail, Inspire, and Secrets & Lives – all contributing substantially to the number of online subscriptions for Mail+.
No finer indicator of theMail’s aspirations or the thrilling changes underway can be seen than through the hiring of the globe’s inaugural Global Women’s Editor.
Celia stated, “I’m incredibly thrilled to take on the role of the Mail’s inaugural Global Women’s Editor. This is a tremendous honor.”
The Mail has consistently led in women’s editorial content, boasting a dynamic, devoted, and highly involved female audience.
In collaboration with many of the finest writers and editors in Britain, we have significantly increased our focus on women’s content over recent years. The triumphant introduction of Mail+ in both Australia and the United States heralds an exhilarating new era for the Mail.
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by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | government, journalism, news, news media, politics
After the completion of the tenth edition of the Ramadan gift distribution for families of Kebbi State Nigerian Union of Journalists members who passed away while working, the Kebbi Area Council handed out sacks of rice along with a monetary donation of 10,000 Naira each to twenty affected households on Monday.
The notable gathering hosted at the facilities of Kebbi State Television attracted representatives from various chapels throughout the state. These participants were among those who received benefits under the NUJ Sallah and Ramadan packages. Specifically, the Correspondent Chapel was awarded eighty thousand naira along with two sacks of rice. Similarly, the NTA Chapel, Ministry of Information Chapel, and several others also benefitted.
Previously, during his address, the chairman of the Kebbi State branch of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Muhammed Bello Sarki, expressed gratitude towards the previous chairman, Malam Aliyu Jajirma, who had initiated support for the families of deceased journalists a decade earlier. “We acknowledge the visionary approach of our predecessors within the organization,” he stated, “who devised ways to provide these families with a sense of security and assurance, making sure they feel supported even after losing their loved ones.”
Sarki acknowledged the contributions of Ganau rice mills and Labana rice mills, which supported the union by providing sacks of rice. He also highlighted the individual donations made by key figures such as the Head of Service and Governor’s younger brother, Alhaji Umar Buro, along with numerous other benefactors.
In his goodwill address, Commissioner Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed BK praised the union for their generous act and promised to involve the state government the following year. His aim was to elevate the assistance program so significantly that families of deceased journalists would receive at least ten bags of rice per household along with a substantial monetary gift.
He characterized Governor Idris as a media-friendly leader known for his compassionate impact across various sectors within the state. He stated that they would organize substantial donations from the government to support the families of deceased journalists and explore ways to involve them continuously rather than limiting assistance to just Ramadan.
The yearly gathering saw the participation of the Commissioner for Information, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Yahya Sarki, along with the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | innovation, journalism, journalists, news, news media
MTN Nigeria has launched registrations for the fourth iteration of its Media Innovation Program, a half-year fellowship aimed at providing media practitioners with knowledge about the changing media and technological environment, as stated in a press release on Monday.
On Monday, a statement was made indicating that the program, which is being conducted in collaboration with the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, is set to commence on May 19. The initiative also encompasses a study trip to the University of Johannesburg in South Africa.
The telecom company stated that the initiative is available for journalists, broadcasters, bloggers, as well as social media content producers.
The Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria, Tobe Okigbo, commented, “Upon launching MIP in 2022, our objective was to improve the reporting skills of media professionals and increase their knowledge about the tech industry, thereby enabling them to emerge as genuine media trailblazers.”
Observing the effects of the program over the last three years has been truly inspirational and sobering. We are delighted to keep this initiative going and extend an invitation to all qualifying media professionals and content creators to take advantage of this chance by applying for the upcoming fourth group.
Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, who serves as the Dean of the School of Media and Communication at Pan-Atlantic University, stated that the program keeps getting better and more refined over time.
In light of the rapidly evolving media landscape we face today, there is increasing pressure to nurture a new cohort of media experts who can spearhead innovation and maintain high standards to address contemporary media demands.
“SMC will utilize its vast expertise in educating media professionals to prepare this upcoming group. We will continue to prioritize creativity and ethics as we have always done,” he stated.
The statement further noted that upon completion of the program, the 20 selected candidates, who will be designated as Fellows, will receive training focused on Nigeria’s tech industry, the interplay between media and technology, and enhanced avenues for content development.
They will also acquire the abilities needed to adjust to evolving circumstances that ensure both career advancement and fiscal prosperity within their chosen professions. Additionally, fellows will gain entry to professional tools and guidance from PAU’s distinguished educators.
Journalists, bloggers, and content producers who have an interest can submit their applications through the MTN website. The application period will start on Monday, March 24, and conclude on Monday, April 7, 2025.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | journalism, news, politics, politics and government, politics and law
Gregor Gysi will begin the inaugural session of the new Bundestag when it meets on Tuesday, March 25. The 77-year-old from the left-wing party has full liberty to choose both the topic and duration of his address.
According to the rules of the German parliament, the longest-serving member has the privilege of opening the inaugural session of a new Bundestag following a general election. In this instance, that role falls to 77-year-old Gregor Gysi, who has been a nearly continuous member for 31 years, from October 3, 1990—the date of Germany’s reunification.
Gysi was raised in the German Democratic Republic (GDR), which was a communist regime.
The accomplished attorney, who was also the offspring of ex-GDR Cultural Minister Klaus Gysi, entered the political arena amid the nonviolent upheaval of the late ’80s. Following the collapse of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989, which put the influential Socialist Unity Party of Germany (SED) at a crossroads, Gysi assumed leadership swiftly. Against considerable doubt, he managed an extraordinary feat: steering the SED away from oblivion.
How the Left Party Developed Over Time
To signal a new beginning for a new democratic era, the SED adopted the name PDS (Party of Democratic Socialism) and went on to win 16% of the vote in the last and only free East German election, to the GDR People’s Chamber.
Next, Gysi took on the role of the primary contender for the PDS in the initial post-reunification election to the Bundestag, which was headquartered in Bonn, the capital of Western Germany at that time.
“When I entered the Bundestag in 1990, I wasn’t held in high regard; instead, I was despised by certain individuals,” Berlin-native Gysi recounted to the weekly paper lately.
Das Parliament
He mentioned having to gain respect over many years, yet he ended by saying that now things have changed: “I think most members of the Bundestag acknowledge my political contributions.”
Stasi allegations
Many people also criticize the left-wing politician due to allegations that were never completely resolved. In the mid-1990s, documents from the notorious East German Ministry for State Security, commonly referred to as the “Stasi,” came to light, indicating that Gysi might have been a Stasi informer. However, no evidence was ever found to substantiate these claims.
Nevertheless, a Bundestag committee examining potential Stasi involvement among Members of Parliament concluded that Gysi was indeed an informal informant for the East German secret service. Despite having previously advocated for those opposed to the government during the GDR period, Gysi managed to successfully defend himself multiple times in court against recurring allegations.
The accusations regarding his history failed to diminish his popularity, even within the former West Germany. Known as an adept speaker, he frequently intimidates fellow Members of Parliament with his clever parliamentary addresses. Additionally, he is a favorite among television talk show audiences and much in demand as an interview subject.
Safeguarding East German interests
Gysi has consistently viewed himself as an advocate for the interests of eastern Germany. Following reunification, millions of former GDR residents found themselves without work due to the struggling state-run businesses (VEB) being incapable of competing within the capitalist framework. As a result, they rapidly started feeling like inferior citizens.
Gysi aimed to alter this situation, yet his efforts were only partly successful. At first, the newly formed leftist group achieved electoral success with more than 20% of votes in the former East Germany. However, gradually, numerous individuals distanced themselves from the party known as The Left. Consequently, many residents in Eastern Germany shifted their support toward the right-populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
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Gysi is particularly delighted with the unforeseen success of his party during the federal elections held on February 23rd. Having secured slightly less than nine percent, they nearly doubled their previous outcome from 2021. The rise in backing for the AfD has left him feeling disheartened. Likely due to this concern, he’s anticipated to address the condition of societal affairs in his inaugural speech as a former speaker of the Bundestag. Additionally, he plans to weigh in on matters concerning international relations amidst multiple conflicts and upheavals.
Thirty-five years since German reunification, it is both an honor and a responsibility to kick off the inaugural session of the new Bundestag, as Gysi stated.
Das Parlament
He will deliver both his opening and closing remarks at this event – with no restrictions on how long he can speak. “Don’t fret,” he quipped, “I won’t take advantage of that liberty.”
The original version of this piece was penned in German.
If you’re still around: Each Tuesday, the LIFEHACKeditors compile updates on developments in German politics and society. You can subscribe here for the weekly email newsletter called Berlin Briefing.
Author: Marcel Fürstenau
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | journalism, journalists, news, news media, politics
The renowned veteran journalist Geoffrey Nyarota, who passed away on March 22, 2025, was widely recognized across Zimbabwe and throughout the Southern African region and farther abroad.
Similar to how Okonkwo’s reputation was built in Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart,” his renown was grounded in substantial accomplishments within journalism.
As a journalist, Nyarota gained recognition in the late 1980s after serving as the editor of The Chronicle. He exposed a corruption scandal implicating high-ranking government figures such as ministers. These officials were alleged to have abused their positions to buy vehicles from Willowvale Motor Industries through governmental channels before selling these vehicles at a profit.
This led to the formation of the Sandura Commission, headed by High Court Judge Justice Wilson Sandura, which resulted in the scandal becoming infamous as the Willowgate Scandal.
As the inaugural chairperson of MISA Zimbabwe, Nyarota strived to adhere to the principles outlined in the 1991 Windhoek Declaration on Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press.
The Declaration characterizes an independent press as one that operates without being influenced by governmental, political, or economic pressures, and is free from control over resources and infrastructure necessary for producing and distributing newspapers, magazines, and journals.
Regarding this, Nyarota, who received multiple prestigious international journalism accolades throughout his distinguished career, served as the inaugural editor of the groundbreaking Daily News.
So far, MISA Zimbabwe functions as the regional hub for MISA Regional and serves as a key thinker on issues like media freedom, freedom of expression, and access to information. This has been influenced by the significant strides made by individuals such as Nyarota.
His existence was fraught with challenges and hardships, yet it also left lasting impacts, demonstrated by the multiple books he authored reflecting his dedication to investigative reporting.
Nyati, who was widely recognized through his clan name, also presided over the government’s Information Media Panel of Inquiry (IMPI).
The IMPI report serves as an evolving and essential reference for actions required to ensure a democratic media landscape in Zimbabwe, where the press functions autonomously and performs its oversight duties without interference.
In an article marking MISA Zimbabwe’s 25th anniversary, Nyarota described the increased efforts to regulate the press (known as media capture) as “short-sighted” and a “violation” of the principles outlined in the Windhoek Declaration.
Efforts at media control, particularly those involving blatant corruption, should not just be strongly opposed but completely eradicated.
MISA needs to address these challenges by developing tactics to prevent any detrimental media manipulation.
One effective approach could involve instilling in journalists the habit of conducting impactful investigative reporting along with adhering to ethical standards.
Nyarota dozed, dreamed, breathed, and embraced journalism.
Cris Chinaka: Chairman of the MISA Zimbabwe Board of Trustees
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
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by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, journalism, news, news media, politics
The dismantling of Voice of America signals a concerning trend regarding press freedom. However, pro-democracy media initiatives throughout Africa initially experienced these challenges when the White House reduced USAID financing, causing numerous media organizations to struggle.
When the White House enacted an executive order aimed at dismantling pro-democracy media organizations such as Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, it sent shockwaves through regions ranging from Prague to Addis Ababa instead of broadcasting radio signals.
“Over the last four decades, VOA has served as a primary source of information regarding Ethiopia’s critical political and societal matters. Should the radio station cease operations, significant backlash is inevitable,” remarks Endalekachew Haile Michael, a U.S.-based media analyst, further stating that
Trump administration’s
A stance against media institutions erodes the United States’ “exemplary standing in terms of press freedom globally.”
For audiences such as Alemayehu Geberheywet, VOA served not only as a source for daily news but also as a platform broadcasting numerous educational programs. Ever since the start of the socialist regime in Ethiopia, VOA has been considered the voice of the people.
The Voice of America started broadcasting in 1942 primarily to combat Nazi propaganda. Later, during the Cold War, it shifted focus to oppose communist ideologies. It extended its reach into Eastern Europe, Asia, and Africa. In the period following the Cold War, VOA gained recognition for providing credible information in nations where media freedoms were limited.
In reaction to the reductions implemented by the US,
Broadcasters such as LIFEHACK from Europe and France Médias Monde (FMM)
There have been calls for initiatives to address the gap created by the diminishing U.S.-funded global radio and television communications.
U.S. cuts have already jolted Africa’s media scene.
But for African media, the gutting of the VOA, which operated across 13 African nations, came as just the latest blow to pro-democracy media.
Earlier, reductions in funding to USAID (United States Agency for International Development) and other international aid initiatives—which operated across most African countries and extended their support beyond just humanitarian efforts—had indirect effects on various aspects of the media sector, including training programs, fact-checking units, and publishing activities. In total, in 2024, out of $41 billion allocated to Sub-Saharan Africa, the U.S. contributed $12.7 billion. Additionally, African countries received benefits from globally funded American programs aimed at combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
Nancy Booker, a journalism and media communications professor at the Nairobi campus of Aga Khan University, shared with LIFEHACK: “For an extended period, numerous community-driven or emerging African media outlets have depended significantly on financial support from donors. Currently, we are witnessing considerable instability.”
Simon Allison, from the South African independent outlet The Continent—which wasn’t impacted by the reduction in U.S. assistance—characterized the scenario as an “extinction-level event for numerous media organizations.”
“Even those that do not depend on U.S. assistance are finding it tough, particularly in South Africa. In my view, no media outlet is flourishing or generating substantial profits,” he stated to LIFEHACK.
Several media sector insiders talked to LIFEHACK anonymously due to the ongoing evaluation of their program financing. Nancy Booker highlighted that the funding reductions have had repercussions extending to initiatives outside the purview of the US government.
“Not just the national agencies, but also our bilateral cooperation efforts face increasing pressure to cease their activities,” she stated to LIFEHACK.
Not long ago, The Namibian, a local newspaper, received communication from the U.S. Embassy located in Windhoek concerning their ongoing advertisements within the paper. According to reports, the embassy reportedly reached out to inquire whether The Namibian has ties with organizations such as the Associated Press, The New York Times, and Reuters—publications that were once frequently condemned by former President Donald Trump.
The leader of a Tanzanian media outlet, requesting confidentiality, mentioned that financial support for media operations is merely part of a broader system supported by donors that has suddenly collapsed.
As it turns out, this isn’t an isolated incident,” they shared with LIFEHACK.
When the largest global financier announces that they are no longer concerned with issues related to climate or the environment, as well as topics like inclusivity, diversity, and equality, it establishes the priorities for other groups.
A significant concern has also been the loss of jobs for journalists, their families, and enterprises associated with NGOs funded by donors.
“Across many African nations, individuals who achieve prosperity within their communities often discover that they must support between 50 to 100 people. This can happen because organizations shut down and employees lose jobs thought to be stable,” they explained to LIFEHACK.
A strategic mistake?
The disbandment of the Voice of America along with reductions in funding for aid programs that backed independent media outlets has faced severe criticism both within the United States and across the continent. Regarding Ethiopian journalism, Endalekachew Haile Michael pointed out that the initial impact would be “the loss of fact-driven reporting.” He also highlighted another issue: the U.S. has willingly surrendered its soft power influence. As a result, nations like China, Russia, and those from the Middle East are now advancing their own media platforms.
Although the White House defended the action by stating that taxpayers were no longer footing the bill for extreme ideologies, internal opponents criticized the reductions as being perilous.
press freedom
, and a tactical error.
Democratic Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi stated, “The only individuals celebrating this are opponents and autocrats globally, particularly those with non-existent press freedoms.”
The state-owned newspaper Global Times published in an opinion piece, “the exclusive control over information by certain conventional Western media outlets is crumbling.”
Trump frequently criticizes media reports about himself and has expressed doubt over financing the Voice of America due to its “firewall,” which guarantees its editorial autonomy. Nancy Booker from Nairobi warns that dismissing critical press outlets within the U.S. could set an example for authorities elsewhere who might disregard unfavorable news coverage in their own countries.
She stated to LIFEHACK, ‘The United States has served as an example for numerous aspects, including governance.’
A few of our leaders might believe that this is how we address the media and journalism.
The way forward
For many years, the availability of funds from donors contributed significantly to enhancing journalism capabilities in areas such as training, verification, and human rights coverage.
Allison from South Africa stated to LIFEHACK: “While it’s generally a positive notion for everyone to reduce dependency on donor funding, the abrupt nature of the U.S. decision surprised numerous media outlets.”
There isn’t much room for alternative solutions due to the urgent requirement for rapid adaptations, compounded by local and national governments lacking sufficient funds.
Allison stated that they are focusing on expanding local philanthropy efforts, putting more effort into persuading advertisers of the importance of maintaining their business relationships with independent media outlets and presenting them with ethical reasons for doing so.
Certain observers like Allison and Nancy Booker think that even though there might be present shocks, these reductions have the potential to ignite an initiative for African media financing that doesn’t depend on external donations.
“Allison suggests that if we can convince viewers we deserve financial support, we might achieve a far more stable future,” he states.
Author: Cai Nebe
