There is a strong need for an organization devoted solely to the research, monitoring, defense, and advocacy of media rights and freedom of expression for the West Africa region. The mission of Media Foundation for West Africa are as follows:
Help consolidate fundamental freedoms won by media and communication professionals and organizations, legislators and human rights organizations, and to expand the boundaries of these freedoms;
To monitor abuses and violations; and legislation of laws inimical to media and speech rights, and defend victims such as media practitioners, writers, communicators, and others;
To build a comprehensive data-base and information system for outreach to media practitioners, writers, communicators, researchers, policymakers, NGOs and students;
To develop a network of correspondents, journalists, legal practitioners and experts to facilitate exchanges.

This discussion forum is to help enhance the mission of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). Visit our web site at http://www.mediafoundationwa.org for more information about MFWA.