Nairobi, Kenya, 27th August 2025 – Nairobi has officially kicked off the much-awaited Africa Global Public Relations Week (AGPRW) 2025, with a colourful celebration that has brought together PR professionals, communications experts, and thought leaders from across the continent and beyond. This year’s event has been marked by a special focus on artificial intelligence (AI), which is set to shape the future of the public relations (PR) industry in Africa and globally.
Themed “Beyond Conversations: Redefining PR, Redefining Africa,” AGPRW 2025 shines a spotlight on the transformative power of AI and digital technologies in modern communication. As Africa continues to witness rapid technological advancements, PR professionals across the continent are increasingly integrating AI tools to automate tasks, analyze vast amounts of data, and craft targeted communications at scale.
In her opening address, Mary Njoki, Founder and CEO of Glass House PR Limited, underscored the need to embrace AI to stay competitive in the fast-evolving PR industry. “Africa’s PR industry is at a pivotal moment. With over 384 million social media users, a young, tech-savvy population, and increasing internet penetration, we are uniquely positioned to incorporate AI into our communication strategies. This week is not only a celebration of where we are but a forward-looking conversation about how AI will shape the future of PR in Africa,” she said.
Njoki further emphasized the ubiquity of mobile technology across the continent, noting that while AI is at the forefront of the conversation, mobile phones remain an essential tool for reaching African audiences. “When we think of technology, we often think of AI, but we must also recognize the power of mobile phones, which are in every home across Africa. This is technology we can use to reach everyone,” she added.
Bianca de Beer, Senior Marketing Manager at First for Women Insurance in South Africa, also joined the conversation virtually, suggesting that AI could be used to reflect African values and realities. “One of the best ways to harness AI is to make it reflect our African context. By feeding AI with the true essence of African values, we can create solutions that resonate with local audiences,” de Beer noted.
Nyandia Gachago, Founder of Mintylime, emphasized the need for wider access to AI tools in Kenya. “We already have more than 20 AI tools in Kenya, but access to them is still limited. AI speaks like us, but the reality is, not everyone has the means to tap into its potential,” she said.
As the PR industry evolves, AI is now playing a central role in key areas such as digital storytelling, audience engagement, and reputation management. AI tools enable PR professionals to analyze large datasets, predict trends, automate media outreach, and personalize content, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of communication strategies.
One of the highlights of AGPRW 2025 is the AI and PR Masterclass, where industry leaders and AI experts will demonstrate practical applications of artificial intelligence in PR campaigns, ranging from content creation to crisis management.
The week-long event will explore a variety of critical topics shaping the future of African PR, including:
• The Role of AI in Digital Storytelling: How AI tools are revolutionizing the creation of engaging, targeted content for diverse African audiences.
• Crisis Communication in the Digital Age: Understanding how AI can help PR professionals manage crises in real time through data-driven decision-making.
• Building Trust through Authentic Narratives: The role of AI in enhancing transparency and authenticity in brand communication to foster trust.
• Empowering African Voices in Global Media: Opportunities for using AI to amplify African perspectives on the global stage.
• Public Relations as a Tool for Socio-Economic Development: The potential of PR in driving Africa’s development agenda.
Keynote speakers at AGPRW 2025 include Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, CEO of YD Company (Nigeria), Israel Opayemi, Managing Director of Chain Reactions Africa, and Paul Holmes, Founder & CEO of PRovoke Media. These thought leaders will share their expertise on integrating AI into communication strategies to amplify brands and shape public opinion.
The event also fosters significant networking opportunities, with participants from global PR agencies, technology providers, media organizations, and academic institutions coming together to exchange ideas and form strategic partnerships.
A central focus of the event is the Youth and Innovation Hub, aimed at empowering young professionals and university students. This initiative will give them a platform to connect with mentors, showcase their creativity, and explore career opportunities in PR and strategic communication.
With representatives from over 25 countries, AGPRW 2025 is expected to spark collaborations that will elevate African PR practices globally, setting the stage for an era of innovation and technology adoption across the continent.
As Nairobi hosts this ground-breaking event, the discussions and insights shared during Africa Global PR Week 2025 are set to reshape how PR professionals engage with audiences and leverage technology, ultimately redefining Africa’s place in the global communications landscape.
Ends.
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Left to right – Maina Chege, Founder, Frontline Media, Mary Njoki, Founder and CEO, Glass House PR Limited, Nyandia Gachago, Founder of Mintylime, Oliver Mathenge, Communications Consultant, Oxygene, and Bianca de Beer, Senior Marketing Manager at First for Women Insurance in South Africa (joining virtually), at a panel discussion during the Africa Global Public Relations Week (AGPRW) in Nairobi.
